Restricted airspace breached as fighter jets intercept plane over Clemson, South Carolina during Trump rally

Plane enters restricted airspace

F-16s were sent just after 5:30 p.m. ET to intercept a general aviation plane that violated a temporary flight restriction over Clemson, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD.

Military jets tracked the plane until it landed safely at a nearby airfield. NORAD said pilots who break flight restrictions may encounter federal authorities after landing and face enforcement action.

Restrictions around major events

The Federal Aviation Administration issues temporary flight restrictions for various reasons, including severe weather and large athletic, entertainment or political events. Restrictions are often set over places visited by high-profile figures, particularly the president.

Air Force officials have urged pilots to check restrictions while planning routes and before takeoff. The FAA distributes them through Notices to Airmen, known as NOTAMs.

Rally focused on Senate race

She is facing Democratic challenger Annie Andrews in the state’s midterm Senate election. Lindsey Graham died suddenly from a heart condition in July.

Other recent interceptions

NORAD has reported several recent interceptions of civilian aircraft that entered restricted airspace around Trump rallies as the November midterms approach. Over the weekend, F-16s intercepted an aircraft over Cincinnati, Ohio, while Trump spoke at a nearby rally, according to the military command. NORAD also reported similar incidents in Chicago at the end of September and in Geneva, Ohio, in August, during a teen athletic tournament attended by Trump.