A recent drone sighting near Air Force One at Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) triggered a temporary ground stop and the launch of helicopters for airspace investigation. This incident took place near where the president was staying at Mar-A-Lago.
The sighting was reported as the unidentified drone flew within restricted airspace designated for presidential travel. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) imposes temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) around sensitive areas like Mar-a-Lago and PBI to safeguard aircraft operations and maintain secure airspace.
In response, a ground stop was implemented at PBI, which paused all taxiing and departures, allowing authorities to address the potential threat. Helicopters were dispatched as part of the coordinated effort to locate and evaluate the reported drone.
“They’re not sure what it was, but apparently there was a drone that came in too close to the airport. They had to scramble some helicopters to go and investigate that,” a Delta Airlines pilot explained to passengers.
Once the area was deemed secure, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that the situation had returned to normal. “At no point was there any risk to AF1 or the President’s safety,” he said.
Delta flight announcement warns of ground stop at Palm Beach (PBI) after drone flies too close during Air Force One takeoff
Helicopters deployed as authorities move in to investigatepic.twitter.com/RcTupdInwh
— Derrick Evans (@DerrickEvans4WV) March 29, 2026
Guglielmi emphasized that all helicopter movements were authorized and part of standard security protocols, with no confirmed violation of airspace linked to the drone. This response adhered to well-established measures regarding unidentified aircraft near presidential activities.
Air Force One departed without incident after the airspace was cleared, with regular airport operations resuming shortly after. There were no injuries, damages, or major disruptions beyond the temporary delay.
Such responses are commonplace when President Trump visits South Florida. During his time at Mar-a-Lago or elsewhere in Palm Beach, military helicopters and jets often assist with transportation under the auspices of Secret Service coordination.
Similar occurrences have been reported around Mar-A-Lago previously, as well as at the president’s Bedminster golf course in New Jersey.
