NORAD intercepted another pilot that entered restricted airspace over Mar-a-Lago on Saturday morning. This latest incident adds to a growing list of more than 20 such violations since President Donald Trump took office in January.
NORAD, the military organization responsible for monitoring and protecting North American airspace, described the increasing number of incursions as “excessive” in an official statement.
The agency emphasized the importance of pilots reviewing the “Notice to Airmen” before each flight, as mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
“These procedures are not optional,” stated NORAD Commander Gregory Guillot, underscoring the necessity of adherence to airspace restrictions.
On Saturday at approximately 8:50 a.m., the intercepted aircraft entered the temporary flight restriction zone over Palm Beach. A NORAD fighter jet swiftly escorted the plane out of the restricted area without incident.
Just one week prior, military jets were deployed to remove three unauthorized aircraft from the same airspace within a two-hour span. During that operation, flares were used to capture the pilots’ attention and ensure compliance.
These temporary flight restrictions are enacted whenever President Trump visits Mar-a-Lago. The restrictions apply to all types of aircraft, including commercial flights arriving and departing from Palm Beach International Airport (PBIA).
As a result, air traffic is rerouted around the private club, increasing jet noise over residential and commercial areas that are not typically exposed to such disturbances.
Trump arrived at PBIA on Friday evening after delivering a speech at a White House digital assets summit. This visit marks his fifth trip to Mar-a-Lago since taking office. Accompanying the president were notable figures, including billionaire Elon Musk, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, and presidential aide Walt Nauta.
The repeated airspace violations near Mar-a-Lago have raised concerns about aviation safety and compliance with federal airspace regulations. NORAD has reiterated its commitment to swiftly addressing any breaches of restricted airspace. The agency works in coordination with the FAA to notify pilots of temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in effect during presidential visits.
While some incidents may be due to pilot error or lack of awareness, NORAD officials stress that pilots have a responsibility to stay informed about airspace limitations.
Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) are publicly available and provide details about TFRs, yet the frequency of violations suggests that some aviators may not be adequately reviewing these critical updates before taking flight.