F-16s Scrambled, Flares Deployed After Pilots Breach Airspace Near Trump at World Cup Final
By Rusty Weiss | 7:08 AM on July 20, 2026
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) scrambled F-16 fighter jets and deployed flares on Sunday to intercept multiple aircraft that had wandered into restricted airspace over Bedminster and East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The incidents coincided with Temporary Flight Restrictions as President Trump attended the FIFA World Cup final at nearby MetLife Stadium.
"More than 10 general aviation aircraft have entered restricted airspace today, three of which required intercepts by NORAD aircraft. During two of the intercepts, NORAD aircraft dispensed flares, which may have been visible to the public," NORAD said in a statement.
"The flares were used to draw the pilots’ attention."
All general aviation aircraft were safely escorted out of the temporary flight restriction zones after the violations.
Pilots were urged to check their Notice to Airmen (NOTAMS) and FAA Temporary Flight Restrictions in a post on X.
https://twitter.com/NORADCommand/status/2078967547379282109more
https://redstate.com/rusty-weiss/2026/07/20/f-16s-scrambled-flares-deployed-after-pilots-breach-airspace-near-trump-at-world-cup-final-n2204518
