US Air Force intercepts aircraft over Trump’s no-fly zone, fifth one in a day

A US Air Force fighter jet was scrambled on Saturday to intercept a civilian aircraft that breached restricted airspace over President Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf course, where he and the First Lady were spending the weekend.

According to a statement from the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), the violation occurred around 2:39 pm (Local time). Eastern Daylight Time on July 5.

The aircraft entered a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) zone, prompting NORAD to deploy a fighter jet to intercept and safely escort it out of the area. A “headbutt maneuver” was used to draw the pilot’s attention.

This incident marked the fourth violation of restricted airspace over Bedminster on that day, followed by two more later, bringing the total number of incursions to five.

NORAD reiterated the importance of adhering to FAA Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs), particularly TFRs issued when high-profile individuals like President Trump are in the area.

The US Air Force also issued a sharp warning to civilian pilots and directed strict adherence with airspace restrictions.

The restricted zone around Bedminster is part of NORAD’s layered air defense system, which uses radar, satellites and fighter jets to protect US and Canadian airspace, especially when a president is present.

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