Multiple Airspace Incursions Near President Trump’s New Jersey Golf Club

Over the weekend, U.S. Air Force fighter jets intercepted an unauthorized aircraft in restricted airspace near President Donald Trump’s Bedminster golf course, marking the 11th such incident during the weekend. All of the small private planes involved were redirected away from the Trump National Golf Club.

The most recent event occurred Sunday morning, according to the Air Force. Some of the intercepting aircraft used a tactic known as “headbutt,” where fighter jets fly close across a civilian plane’s nose, creating turbulence that prompts the pilot to notice and alter course.

Two F-16 fighter jets flying in formation — Some encounters involved F-16 fighter jets operated by NORAD, which were required to force the planes out of restricted airspace.

NORAD and the FAA coordinate efforts to ensure safety and security over U.S. skies, especially around areas under Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR). According to NORAD official Gen. Gregory Guillot, these measures are in place to maintain national security and protect the President.

During the weekend, fighter jets occasionally performed close maneuvers to get the attention of civilian pilots, a strategy used to enforce airspace restrictions effectively.

American flag flying at Ivana Trump's gravesite — President Trump spent part of the holiday weekend at Bedminster, departing the White House Friday evening and scheduled to return Sunday afternoon.

The recent interceptions highlight ongoing vigilance over sensitive areas, with NORAD advising pilots to verify restrictions beforehand and to communicate immediately if intercepted, by tuning into frequencies 121.5 or 243.0 and following instructions to reverse course.