NPR

If Trump Is Traveling And A Pilot Strays, Fighter Jets Will Follow

Traveling U.S. presidents get a flight restriction with a radius that spans 30 nautical miles. When pilots fly inside that airspace, they risk being intercepted by the Air Force.
The Massachusetts Civil Air Patrol and the 104th Fighter Wing participate in an alert scramble exercise at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Westfield, Mass.

A lone, single-engine Cessna airplane enters restricted airspace. The pilot ignores air traffic control, so the plane stays on course. That's when the F-16 fighter jet shows up outside the window with a warning call that blares over the radio: "You've been intercepted." This is what happened during a by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, and conducted by the and the Colorado Air National Guard.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min read
How Much Should I Spend On A Wedding Present? Life Kit's Tips Of The Month
Our April roundup of expert advice includes a nifty negotiation tactic, guidance on how to prevent digital eye strain and why you should travel during 'shoulder season.'
NPR2 min read
Military Families In Hawaii Spark Trial Over 2021 Jet Fuel Leak That Tainted Water
A trial for a mass environmental injury case begins in Hawaii on Monday, more than two years after a U.S. military facility poisoned thousands of people when it leaked jet fuel into drinking water.
NPR6 min read
8 Tracks: Beyond The Grave, Johnny Cash Still Shows Us How To Make Music
A new Johnny Cash song got NPR Music producer Lars Gotrich thinking about music released after a beloved artist dies. Check out "Well Alright," plus new music by Arooj Aftab and Tems on 8 Tracks.

Related Books & Audiobooks