How a crisis became an example of stellar intergovernmental communications 

How a crisis became an example of stellar intergovernmental communications  

While no crisis is the same, there is a blueprint to guide an organization of any size when faced with challenging moments. When the crisis involves multiple government agencies, the first step is communicating within to ensure those directly impacted and the public receive the facts and a consistent message. 

The Jan. 31, 2025, plane crash in the Northeast section of Philadelphia was a tragic, deadly incident covered by media outlets around the globe. Its heighted attention came on the heels of the passenger plane crash outside DC, which was just days before the MedVac plane crashed after taking off from Northeast Philadelphia Regional Airport.  

It was an all-hands-on-deck moment involving government agencies and emergency responders at every level. Government officials and the agencies they represent were quickly gathering intel while brave men and women in uniform courageously controlled the chaotic scene. From the very beginning, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker made clear that their public updates were going to be driven by the facts – informative and not rushed.  

Parker, along with members from the president’s administration, federal administrators and the office of Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro, maintained that position throughout the ongoing communications. Each agency worked collectively and communicated together. Their messages and comments were consistent and timely, providing efficient, streamlined communications during a catastrophic event. 

United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy joined the mayor at a press briefing a few days after the incident and commented on the remarkable leadership provided by Parker and Shapiro. They remained in constant contact with federal agencies and elected officials – “helping to make the crisis a little less painful.” 

Effectively communicating a crisis goes well beyond published news articles and stories. The messages and narratives presented have a meaningful impact on individuals and families involved, the responders who put their lives on the line to save others, and the recovery efforts that can go on for weeks and months after the incident. Philadelphia has shown it can work with agencies at all levels and communicate with a unified voice. 

Ceisler Media worked with Philadelphia City Councilmember Mike Driscoll to provide communications support involving the Jan. 31, 2025 plane crash that occurred in the councilmember’s 6th district.