NOTE: VIDEO AT THE END OF ARTICLE
NORAD Scrambles F-16s After Civilian Aircraft Enters Trump’s No-Fly Zone
On Saturday afternoon, NORAD scrambled F‑16 fighter jets to intercept a civilian aircraft that intruded into the restricted airspace surrounding President Trump’s Bedminster, New Jersey golf club. This incident marked the fourth such violation in a single day.
At approximately 2:40 p.m. Eastern, the pilot of a private plane inadvertently crossed into the Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) zone surrounding Trump’s property. NORAD responded swiftly using radar, satellites, and fighter jet deployment. An F‑16 performed a “headbutt” maneuver—flying close to the aircraft’s nose—to signal the pilot to alter course. The civilian plane was then safely escorted out of the restricted zone.
NORAD confirmed that the afternoon’s encounter marked the fourth airspace breach. Officials also reported a fifth intrusion later in the day. The repeated incidents prompted a stern warning to pilots operating near Bedminster.
“If you’re flying anywhere near Bedminster, NJ, you’d better check NOTAMs 1353, 1358, 2246, and 2247,” said First Air Force Command on X. “No excuses! Stay sharp, stay legal, and stay out of restricted airspace.”
FAA regulations require pilots to comply with TFR notices, and failing to do so can result in license suspension, civil penalties, or FAA investigation.
NORAD employs a multi-layered defense system of radar tracking, satellite surveillance, and interceptor aircraft. These systems work in concert to secure airspace around the President’s location. Jet intercepts, such as the headbutt maneuver, are standard protocols used to redirect unauthorized aircraft.
General Glenn Guillot, commander of NORAD and U.S. Northern Command, explained that repeated TFR violations suggest some pilots are not checking Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), placing themselves and national security at risk.
President Trump arrived at Bedminster on Friday evening for a holiday weekend retreat and is expected to return to Washington on Sunday evening. The golf club, located roughly 40 miles west of New York City, falls within a 30‑mile radius TFR whenever he is in residence.
These repeated airspace incursions mirror earlier TFR violations during Trump’s stays at Mar‑a‑Lago, Florida. In March, fighter jets scrambled to intercept aircraft near Palm Beach, marking the 20th TFR breach since his inauguration.
Officials stress the importance of checking NOTAMs before each flight, especially during high-profile TFR activations. Pilots intercepting such zones must switch to emergency frequencies 121.5 or 243.0 and comply with instructions to avoid further incursions.
With at least eleven unauthorized flights logged over the weekend, authorities warn that civil aviators must update their flight plans and adhere to regulations to maintain airspace safety and presidential security.
As the summer retreat continues, NORAD remains on high alert to swiftly handle any further breaches near Bedminster or other presidential residences.
