
For the second time in as many days, F-16 fighter jets were sent into action after civilian planes entered restricted airspace over President Donald Trump’s residence in Palm Beach, Florida. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) confirmed the two incidents, raising concerns about repeated airspace violations near Mar-a-Lago.
The first unauthorized aircraft was detected Saturday morning around 8:50 a.m., prompting an immediate military response. On Sunday, another plane entered the restricted zone at approximately 1:15 p.m., once again requiring the intervention of NORAD’s fighter jets.
Within the the last 48 hours, F-16 jets have intercepted two general aviation planes flying close to President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate
Please protect president Trump at all costs! pic.twitter.com/Bjdn7FmzB1
— 🌸 Digi Gal (@DigitalGal_) March 9, 2025
Both aircraft were intercepted, and in each case, F-16s deployed flares to signal the pilots to change course. NORAD stated that these flares serve as a warning mechanism, drawing attention from pilots without posing any danger to those on the ground.
🚨BREAKING: Over the last 48 hours, F-16 jets have twice intercepted general aviation planes in close proximity to President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate. pic.twitter.com/GivrmR8HD2
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) March 9, 2025
According to Gen. Gregory Guillot, NORAD has responded to over 20 airspace violations near Mar-a-Lago since Trump took office in January. Guillot noted that many of these incidents could be prevented if pilots properly checked Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) before flying.
I bet if those fighter jets turned one of those planes into charcoal, these idiots would stop flying near Mar a Lago.🤷♀️🤷♀️ Just a suggestion 😜 pic.twitter.com/FqK0h7hZY0
— TrumpsKitten (@TrumpsBadKitty) March 9, 2025
Federal Aviation Administration officials have reiterated the importance of adhering to temporary flight restrictions, particularly in areas designated for presidential security. Despite these repeated incursions, there was no indication that Trump faced any direct threat.
Military officials continue to stress that airspace restrictions exist to ensure both national security and flight safety. NORAD and the FAA are working together to prevent further violations and respond swiftly to any future breaches.