FAA Proposes Permanent Flight Rules Near Mar-a-Lago

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has proposed establishing permanent flight rules near President Donald J. Trump International Airport in Palm Beach, Florida. This move aims to ensure airspace security around Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate amid growing concerns over unauthorized aircraft and drones. However, some experts argue that these measures might not fully deter determined threats.

This regulatory action comes at the request of the U.S. Secret Service, emphasizing national security. An FAA spokesperson stated, “At the request of the U.S. Secret Service in the interest of national security, the FAA is proposing Special Air Traffic Rules for the airspace near Donald J. Trump International Airport (DJT).”

The proposal involves creating a Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA). Aircraft flying below 2,000 feet within a mile of the zone must obtain explicit clearance, maintain two-way communication with air traffic control, and continuously transmit a transponder code. Arriving and departing aircraft are required to meet strict security criteria.

These measures follow multiple threats against Trump, notably a June incident where suspects plotted an attack using explosive-laden drones. These were aimed at Trump and other officials during a UFC event at the White House.

“When you look at what happened in Butler, it was discovered later that the shooter used a Chinese drone bought off Amazon for basic surveillance before attacking,” Brett Velicovich, a former U.S. Army intelligence analyst, told Fox News Digital.

Velicovich highlighted the need for faster adoption of active interdiction capabilities by government agencies instead of just relying on airspace designations. “We’re going to have to have more counter-drone systems in place,” he said. “It is not good enough simply for the FAA to declare an area a no-drone zone.”

The FAA proposal remains open for public comment until October 2. The White House has deferred questions about the security measures to the U.S. Secret Service, which has not yet provided further comments.