Fighter jets were scrambled over Washington DC with residents reportedly hearing a ‘sonic boom’ today.
The F-16 planes took to the air to make an interception after a civilian aircraft violated resticted airspace around 11.15am.
Residents heard the sonic boom as the jets flew to escort the plane from a restricted area over the US capital
Washington DC is protected by one of the most tightly controlled airspace zones, known as the Special Flight Rules Area.
Pilots must follow strict procedures and maintain constant communication with air traffic control to prevent unauthorised incursions within the 30-nautical-mile radius.
The US air force confirmed that fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the “general aviation aircraft” that violated restricted airspace and it was escorted away from the area.
It also reminded pilots to be aware and keep up-to-date on areas with restrictions including around Washington and Mar-a-Lago in Florida where Trump has his home.
North American Aerospace Defence Command wrote on X: “Earlier today, NORAD F-16 fighter aircraft from the Continental U.S. NORAD Region safely intercepted a general aviation aircraft that violated #FAA restricted airspace over the United States National Capital Region, and escorted it clear of the area without further incident.
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“Pilots are reminded to check all #FAA Notice to Airmen (NOTAMs) and FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs), including in the National Capital Region and Mar-a-Lago regions.”