Overview
- F-16s from the continental NORAD region intercepted a general aviation plane that strayed into the National Capital Region’s restricted airspace around 11:15 a.m. Tuesday and escorted it out without incident.
- People across the area reported a loud sonic boom as the jets moved to keep the aircraft clear of the protected zone.
- The D.C. Special Flight Rules Area spans roughly 30 to 33 miles and requires advance clearance, a coded transponder, and constant radio contact with air traffic control.
- NORAD reminded pilots to check FAA Notices to Air Missions and Temporary Flight Restrictions and said intercepted pilots should call 121.5 or 243.0 and turn back until given further instructions.
- NORAD said these intercepts are routine in its layered defense, and recent months have seen similar small-plane incursions near protected sites such as Mar-a-Lago and Bedminster.