Two small private aircraft were intercepted by F-16 fighter jets Saturday afternoon when they violated airspace protected by a Federal Aviation Administration order in place while President Barack Obama visits Kingsmill Resort to prepare for his second debate with Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
The fighters, under the direction of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, at about 5:30 and 5:45 p.m. responded to the FAA-established Temporary Flight Restriction zone violations by a Cessna 182 and a Piper PA32. After intercepting the aircraft, the F-16s escorted both out of the restricted area and the aircraft were allowed to continue without further incident.
All pilots flying in the vicinity of Williamsburg are encouraged to check the Federal Aviation Administration VIP Notice to Airmen that can be found by clicking here.
A temporary flight restriction is in place throughout President Obama’s visit, but additional restrictions will be enforced come Tuesday for what the FAA calls “VIP movement.” That is presumably the departure of President Obama from Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport for New York, where he’s scheduled to debate Romney at Hofstra University in Hempstead that evening at 9.
Tuesday’s additional flight restrictions will be in place from 11:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., but pilots who have plans to fly while the president is in the area are encouraged to check the FAA site to confirm temporary flight restriction times.
