F-16s intercepted a civilian aircraft that entered restricted airspace over Washington, D.C., safely escorting it out of the area.

F-16s were sent to intercept a civilian aircraft that entered the special flight rules area over Washington, D.C., on Tuesday at 11:15 AM. The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) confirmed that the fighter jets ensured the aircraft was escorted out of the restricted airspace without further incidents. This restricted area extends in a circle of approximately 53 kilometers around the city, and pilots must obtain specific authorizations from FAA air traffic control to fly within it.

Aircraft that do not comply with these requirements are escorted out of the area. NORAD uses a defense network consisting of radars, satellites, and fighter jets to identify and respond to threats, including unauthorized civilian aircraft. Interceptions of civilian aircraft in restricted airspace are not uncommon; in the past, similar incidents have occurred near Donald Trump's residence. In 2023, F-16s intercepted an unauthorized Cessna, generating a sonic boom heard by residents in the area.