The North American Aerospace Defense Command said F-16 fighter jets intercepted aircraft near one of US President Donald Trump’s golf clubs hosting a tournament this weekend
US fighter jets have intercepted general aviation aircraft near US President Donald Trump’s golf course after they breached temporary flight restrictions in the vicinity.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) reported that its F-16 fighter jets intercepted the aircraft over Bedminster, New Jersey, on Sunday, August 9. The incident involved two aircraft.
Flight restrictions were enforced over the Bedminster area, where Mr Trump was anticipated to spend the weekend, according to Fox News.
His golf club hosted the LIV Golf New York tournament from August 6 to 9.
The interception was caught on video and depicted the moment the F-16 fighter jet approached small aircraft near Jefferson Township, just outside Bedminster.
The aircraft were escorted out of the restricted zone by NORAD aircraft, officials confirmed.
Prior to Trump’s arrival in New Jersey, NORAD announced it would uphold multiple Federal Aviation Administration-imposed temporary flight restrictions over the region for the weekend.
Temporary flight restrictions are implemented to restrict aircraft operations within specified areas for presidential movements, major sporting events and national security concerns, among other reasons.
General aviation pilots were reminded to check Notices to Airmen before every flight for information on airspace restrictions and other flight protocols.