Spirit Pilots Reprimanded After Close Call with Air Force One
UPDATE: In a startling incident that unfolded on July 11, 2023, two Spirit Airlines pilots faced a verbal reprimand from air traffic control after their flight strayed too close to Air Force One, which was transporting President Donald Trump to the UK for a state visit.
As Air Force One departed from Joint Base Andrews, it was reported flying over Long Island when Spirit Airlines Flight 1300, en route from Fort Lauderdale to Boston, entered the same airspace. The incident occurred almost 30 minutes after takeoff, raising immediate concerns among air traffic controllers.
“Pay attention. Get off the iPad,” an air traffic controller sternly instructed the Spirit pilots, as audio captured by LiveATC.net revealed the controller’s growing impatience. The directive to “turn 20 degrees right” was issued multiple times before the pilots acknowledged the instructions. The controller emphasized the proximity of the aircraft: “Traffic’s off your left wing by six miles or eight miles. 747, I’m sure you can see who it is,” referring to the presidential aircraft.
The two planes’ flight paths intersected just one minute apart over Long Island Sound, with the Spirit flight positioned approximately 9,000 feet below Air Force One. Despite the tense situation, Spirit Airlines later confirmed that Flight 1300 complied with all air traffic control instructions and landed safely without further incident.
A spokesperson for Spirit Airlines stated, “Safety is always our top priority,” underscoring their commitment to adhering to aviation protocols. Following the incident, Air Force One safely landed at London Stansted Airport around 9 p.m. local time, marking the beginning of President Trump’s diplomatic mission, which includes a meeting with King Charles III.
This close encounter raises critical questions about air traffic safety, especially in high-profile situations involving government officials. As both flights navigated the same airspace, the incident serves as a reminder of the complexities and potential hazards faced by pilots and air traffic controllers alike.
As international attention sharpens on the state visit, this incident highlights the intersection of aviation safety and political significance. With billions in tech investments announced during this visit, including commitments from Google and Nvidia to enhance AI services in the UK, the implications extend far beyond the cockpit.
Stay tuned for further updates on President Trump’s state visit and ongoing developments in aviation safety protocols.
