11 Civilian Aircraft Breach Bedminster TFR Over July 4th Weekend
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) reported intercepting 11 civilian aircraft over the July 4th weekend. These aircraft had violated the temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) in place around President Trump’s Bedminster, New Jersey golf club. This led to several F-16 fighter jet intercepts, with one aircraft even receiving a “headbutt” maneuver to get the pilot’s attention.
NORAD Commander General Gregory Guillot stressed that “TFR procedures are mandatory“. He expressed concern that the high number of violations indicates some pilots are not properly checking NOTAMs (Notice to Airmen) before each flight. The restricted airspace encompasses an area from the surface to 17,999 feet, with a 30-nautical-mile radius around the presidential retreat.
The incidents underscore the persistent issues with general aviation pilots failing to comply with TFR requirements. Non-compliance can result in penalties such as fines, certificate suspensions, or enforcement actions. General aviation pilots are urged to check the following NOTAMs for the Bedminster area before flying:
- NOTAM 1353
- NOTAM 1358
- NOTAM 2246
- NOTAM 2247
Source: The Blaze