A fighter jet scrambled by NORAD was forced to intercept a civilian aircraft Saturday afternoon after it violated restricted airspace over Bedminster, New Jersey, where President Donald J. Trump is spending the Fourth of July holiday weekend.
This marked the fourth incursion of the day, with a fifth unauthorized entry reported shortly afterward, prompting sharp warnings from aviation authorities.
Civilian Plane Violates Temporary Flight Restriction Over Trump’s Location
According to a NORAD statement, the aircraft entered the restricted zone just before 2:40 p.m. ET. The area was under a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) due to the presence of Trump, whose Bedminster estate is protected under strict federal flight protocols.
NORAD responded swiftly with its layered air defense system, which includes radar, satellites, and fighter aircraft.
The fighter jet used a “headbutt” maneuver — flying close in front of the civilian plane — to gain the pilot’s attention and safely escort the aircraft out of the area.
Five Violations in One Day
Saturday’s breach was not an isolated incident. Officials confirmed five separate TFR violations occurred over Trump’s secured airspace — a concerning number that triggered multiple NORAD alerts.
“No excuses! Stay sharp, stay legal, and stay out of restricted airspace,” posted 1st Air Force (America’s AOC) on X.
“Attention all pilots: If you’re flying anywhere near Bedminster, NJ, you’d better check NOTAMs 1353, 1358, 2246 and 2247.”
NORAD Maintains Vigilance to Protect American Skies
NORAD reminded the public that it monitors all air traffic 24/7, and the airspace over Bedminster is on lockdown anytime President Trump is present.
“This is why we have NORAD. This is why we have fighter jets at the ready,” said one defense official.