Jetliner Safety

What Happens When An Airplane Goes Down

The airport operator will handle fire fighting and rescue operations if the accident is at or near the airport.
If not near an airport, local police and fire fighters quickly take control of the site to facilitate search and rescue and to protect important evidence.
News media coverage is instantaneous and the demand for information far exceeds the supply.
The National Transportation Safety Board (U.S.), or the government with jurisdiction over the area, is immediately notified.
The affected airline is the responsible source of information about the passengers and crew on board. It will not identify victims prior to notifying next of kin. The airline typically will conduct media briefings from both the accident site and its headquarters.
The airplane manufacturer and engine manufacturer will be involved in the accident investigation, if called upon by the airline or regulatory agency leading the investigation.