Boston's Logan Airport issued an apology for performing a fire drill that included smoke and flames on the 12th anniversary of September 11, Fox News reported.
The two hijacked planes that crashed into the World Trade Center 12 years ago took off from Logan Airport. The attacks took 206 lives, many with ties to Massachusetts.
Gov. Deval Patrick condemned the airport and was not aware of the scheduled drill.
"I didn't know it was going to happen, and it's just dumb," Patrick said. "The timing could not be worse."
However, he emphasized his "tremendous amount of confidence" in the Massachusetts Port Authority.
"I have to believe they just didn't catch this," he said. "The people who experienced 9/11 - many of whom work at Massport - I just feel so sorry."
The airport's Twitter account sent a tweet around 9 a.m. warning local residents of the drill. They also resorted to social media to apologize and posted an apology later in the day on their Facebook page.
"Massport apologizes for conducting the fire training exercise and understands that it may have offended many of those touched by the events of Sept. 11. Safety and security is our top priority and constant vigilance and readiness is critical, but the exercise should not have taken place on the anniversary of 9/11. The airport community recognizes the day with moments of silence, a service in the chapel, and a wreath at the 9/11 memorial," the post read.
Many Facebook users expressed their outrage over the drill. One user, Josh Williamson, said "This may be the single dumbest, most insensitive admin decision of all time."
However, some people expressed their support for the airport's decision.
"Get over it and stop being so sensitive. We all lived that day and will never forget. Keep moving forward and keep ready. Way to go!" commented Anne Couchon.
