NORAD deployed F-16 fighter jets to intercept a civilian aircraft over Clemson, South Carolina, on Wednesday after the plane entered restricted airspace during President Donald Trump's campaign rally at Clemson University.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command said the interception began shortly after 5:30 p. m.
Eastern Time.
The aircraft was flying under general aviation rules when it crossed into airspace covered by a temporary flight restriction issued by the Federal Aviation Administration.
Military jets kept the plane under observation until it landed safely at a nearby airfield.
Pilots Warned of Enforcement After Airspace Breach
NORAD warned that pilots who breach these restrictions could face questioning or further enforcement action once they land.
Officials did not identify the aircraft's operator or release additional details about the circumstances of the violation.
Trump held the rally at T. Ed Garrison Arena in support of Darline Graham, the Republican Senate nominee in South Carolina.
Graham, the sister of late South Carolina Sen.
Lindsey Graham, took over his role after a special election and is seeking a full term in the November midterm elections.
She faces Democratic challenger Annie Andrews.
Temporary flight restrictions limit aircraft operations in designated areas for reasons including severe weather, major sporting events, entertainment gatherings and political appearances.
The FAA frequently establishes such restrictions around locations visited by the president and other high-profile figures.
NORAD also reported a similar interception over Cincinnati, Ohio, during Trump's political appearance in Northern Kentucky on Saturday, October 17.
The command said an F-16 intercepted a general aviation aircraft that had entered restricted airspace and escorted it safely out of the area.
According to a NORAD release cited by Kentucky. com, the Cincinnati interception occurred at approximately 4 p.
m. Eastern Time.
Another report by Cincinnati. com placed the incident at approximately 3 p.
m. Central Standard Time, while Trump was speaking at a rally in Highland Heights, Kentucky.
NORAD did not disclose further information about the Cincinnati aircraft or explain the specific reason for the restriction.
In its guidance for pilots encountering an interception, NORAD stated they should "turn around to reverse course until receiving additional instructions."
The command also warned that pilots who violate TFR airspace may be met by federal authorities upon landing and subject to interview or further enforcement action.
The latest incidents follow other interceptions associated with Trump's public appearances.
NORAD reported similar encounters in the Chicago area in late September and near Geneva, Ohio, in August, when the president attended a youth athletic tournament.
Air Force officials have reminded pilots to review airspace restrictions while planning flight routes and again before departure.
The FAA distributes information about temporary restrictions through Notices to Airmen, commonly known as NOTAMs, which pilots are expected to check before operating their aircraft.
