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NORAD F-16s Intercept Plane in Palm Beach Temporary Flight Restriction, Use Flares to Signal

The command reports a rise in general aviation incursions around West Palm Beach since January.

Overview

  • NORAD said the civilian aircraft entered the restricted area around 4:20 p.m. EST and was escorted out under standard procedures.
  • F-16s dispensed attention-getting flares as an intercept signal, which NORAD says burn out quickly and pose no danger to people on the ground.
  • Officials noted the intercept followed several temporary flight restriction violations in the Palm Beach area earlier in the week.
  • Since the January 2025 inauguration, NORAD has responded to more than 40 tracks of interest in the West Palm Beach restricted airspace.
  • Pilots are reminded to check FAA NOTAMs and, if intercepted, to contact 121.5 or 243.0 and reverse course until receiving instructions.