PALM BEACH, Fla. — Military fighter jets were scrambled to intercept three civilian aircraft that violated restricted airspace over Palm Beach, Florida, on Saturday, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD).
The incidents occurred at 11:05 a.m., 12:10 p.m., and 12:50 p.m. Eastern time, prompting a swift response from NORAD. In each case, F-16 fighter jets were deployed to escort the intruding aircraft out of the area. During two of the intercepts, the jets deployed flares—a measure typically used to gain the attention of pilots who fail to respond to initial communication attempts.
NORAD confirmed that all three civilian aircraft were safely escorted from the restricted airspace without further incident. The agency did not disclose the identities of the aircraft or their pilots, nor did it specify the reason for the airspace restrictions over Palm Beach at the time of the violations.
“NORAD fighter jets responded to ensure the safety and security of the airspace,” a spokesperson for the agency said in a statement. “We take these incidents very seriously and are coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to investigate.”
It remains unclear whether the airspace violations were intentional or the result of pilot error. The use of flares in two of the intercepts suggests that at least some of the aircraft may not have been in contact with air traffic control or aware of their entry into restricted territory.
The FAA has not yet commented on the incidents but is expected to assist NORAD in reviewing flight data and determining the circumstances that led to the violations. Authorities are reminding pilots to check Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) and maintain proper communication with air traffic control to prevent similar occurrences.
Saturday’s events mark a rare instance of military jets being deployed to intercept civilian aircraft over U.S. soil, highlighting the stringent measures in place to protect sensitive airspace. Further details about the incidents are expected to emerge as the investigation unfolds.
This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. 17GEN4.com