Yokota Community Assists Diverted Passengers

From a 374th Airlift Wing News Release

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan, March 11, 2011 – Airmen and volunteers are helping more than 500 commercial airline passengers whose flights were diverted here after a magnitude 8.9 earthquake struck today off the Japanese coast.

Several commercial aircraft were diverted here after Narita International Airport in Tokyo closed.

Some 11 aircraft landed at the base, and more than 500 passengers were transported to the base recreation center where food, water and cots were available. Volunteers from base organizations, including the Red Cross and Boy Scouts, are helping to get the passengers settled, officials said.

A Red Cross website called "Self and Well" is available for people who register to let family and friends know they are safe.

"The 374th Airlift Wing is prepared and ready to assist during this time of crisis," said Air Force Col. Otto Feather, 374th Airlift Wing commander.