On Sunday, fighter jets were scrambled to intercept a civilian aircraft that entered restricted airspace over Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf club. According to NORAD, the incident occurred around 12:50 p.m. ET, with the plane violating a temporary flight restriction (TFR) zone. The plane was escorted out of the area by NORAD aircraft, which used flares to draw the pilot’s attention.
The intercept was the second of the day, as another aircraft had entered the TFR zone, leading to a total of five unauthorized incursions over the weekend. NORAD highlighted the use of flares, which are safe and burn quickly, to ensure the safety of both the intercepted aircraft and people on the ground.
Officials have warned private pilots to verify all Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs) and Fly Informed before every flight, specifically noting FAA NOTAMs 9839, 9840, 9841, and 9842 for the Bedminster region. Pilots are urged to consult the FAA’s TFR database for the most up-to-date information.
According to the president’s schedule, Trump was out of town at the Trump National Golf Club in Bedminster on Sunday. He is expected to return to the White House on Sunday evening.