Air traffic controllers sharply reprimanded Spirit Airlines pilots for flying too close to Air Force One, carrying US President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania.
Close Call Over New York Skies
The incident took place on Tuesday, September 16, as Spirit Airlines Flight 1300 took off from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Boston, Massachusetts, while the Trumps were en route to the United Kingdom.
As Trump’s Air Force One crossed the New York airspace, the Airbus jet began closing in on the president’s Boeing 747’s altitude and flight path, according to reports. Monitoring the situation closely, air traffic controllers immediately issued directions to the Spirit Airlines pilots.
In the audio recordings from LiveATC, a platform that broadcasts aviation communications, the controller can be heard saying, “Spirit 1300, turn 20 degrees right.” With increasing urgency, the instructions were repeated several times.
Air Traffic Controller’s Sharp Rebuke
The controller warned them sternly about the proximity of Air Force One they were approaching. “Traffic off your left wing by six or eight miles, 747. I’m sure you can see who it is,” he said.
In reference to the distinctive paint scheme of the presidential aircraft, the controller noted, “Keep an eye out for him; he’s white and blue.”
After repeated delays in the Spirit pilot’s response, the air traffic controller could be heard losing patience. “I got to talk to you twice every time, Spirit 1300…Pay attention! Get off the iPad,” he snapped.
The Spirit Airlines pilots eventually acknowledged the instructions and made the requested adjustments.
Spirit Airlines Issues Statement
Following the tense mid-air incident, Spirit Airlines issued a response to emphasise its commitment to passenger safety. Speaking to CBS News, a company spokesperson said, “Safety is always our priority.”
The airline shared that the Spirit flight continued without further issues and made a safe landing in Boston. However, they did not address the cockpit distraction allegations.
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