F-16 jets intercept civilian planes over Trump’s New Jersey golf club

Two F‑16 fighter jets from the New Jersey Air National Guard intercepted a pair of civilian aircraft that entered a restricted airspace zone over Bedminster, New Jersey, on Thursday afternoon. The restricted zone was activated because President Donald Trump was present in the area for a scheduled political event, prompting the Department of Defense to enforce a temporary flight restriction (TFR) to safeguard the presidential entourage. Radar data indicated the two light‑sport aircraft breached the 30‑nautical‑mile radius around the presidential location, prompting the immediate scramble of the fighters.

The F‑16s made visual contact, identified the intruding planes, and escorted them out of the prohibited airspace without incident. Both civilian pilots complied with the instructions and were directed to land at a nearby regional airport. No injuries or damage were reported, and the TFR remained in effect until the conclusion of the President’s visit. Authorities are reviewing the incident to determine whether additional measures are needed to prevent future violations of restricted airspace during high‑profile events.