DAFPD35-1 — Public Affairs Management

DAFPD35-1 governs Department of the Air Force public affairs operations, communication programs, information release, and public affairs responsibilities.

Search DAFPD35-1

  • Publication number: DAFPD35-1
  • Title: PUBLIC AFFAIRS MANAGEMENT
  • Date: 2020-12-23

View DAFPD35-1 on armypubs.army.mil


It requires proactive, factual, and accurate information, responsive handling of releasable material, and review for classification, operational sensitivity, and policy conflicts. It prohibits propaganda and disinformation, and addresses visual information products, community relations, public affairs leadership, and military bands.

Applies to: This policy directive applies to all Department of the Air Force military and civilian personnel, including members of the Reserve and Air National Guard.

Topics covered

  • Public affairs operations
  • Communication programs
  • Information release review
  • Propaganda and disinformation
  • Visual information products
  • Community outreach
  • Public affairs leadership

Questions and answers

How must commanders handle requests for releasable information?

To maintain the Department’s credibility, commanders shall ensure a timely and responsive flow of such information. (paragraph 2)

What must reviewers assess before information is released publicly?

Generally, reviewers shall assess the potential implications of releasing the information, ensuring it is not classified, does not disclose operationally sensitive elements, and does not conflict with established government policies or programs. (paragraph 2)

What public affairs activities are prohibited?

Public affairs programs shall not practice propaganda, disinformation or activities intended to bias, mislead, misinform or deny otherwise releasable information. (paragraph 2)

What must the Department of the Air Force do with visual information products?

The Department of the Air Force shall collect, preserve and accession visual information products to meet operational, informational, training, research, legal, historical, recruiting and administrative needs. (paragraph 2)

What does the Department of the Air Force Director of Public Affairs oversee?

The Department of the Air Force Director of Public Affairs is the principal official of the Secretary of the Air Force Office of Public Affairs (SAF/PA) and is responsible for providing guidance, direction and oversight on the formulation, review and execution of public affairs plans, policies, programs and budgets. (paragraph 3)

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