NORAD Intercepts: Rising TFR Violations Over Palm Beach, Florida Spark Safety Concerns
The incident underscores a broader concern about pilots failing to check Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) before flights, a requirement emphasized by both NORAD and the FAA.
FLORIDA - On March 9, 2025, NORAD F-16 fighter aircraft from the Continental U.S. NORAD region intercepted a general aviation aircraft that violated a TFR over Palm Beach at approximately 1:15 p.m. EDT. This marked the second such incident over the same weekend, highlighting a recurring issue with TFR violations in the area.
The civilian aircraft was safely escorted out of the restricted airspace, and during the intercept, NORAD aircraft deployed flares to gain the pilot’s attention or communicate with them. These flares, visible to the public, were used safely, burning out quickly and posing no risk to those on the ground.
