Drone Incident Near Air Force One Triggers Security Response at Palm Beach Airport

On March 30, 2026, a drone was reported flying too close to Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), coinciding with the scheduled departure of Air Force One carrying President Donald Trump. The incident prompted a temporary ground stop, halting all aircraft operations as law enforcement scrambled helicopters to investigate. A Delta Air Lines pilot informed passengers about the drone situation, but the US Secret Service later stated that there was no airspace violation and that the helicopters were authorized for the area. The ground stop was lifted shortly after, and Air Force One departed safely without incident. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported an hour-long delay due to 'volume,' but did not directly link it to the drone incident. This event follows a previous security breach at Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort in February, where an armed man was shot by Secret Service agents. The exact nature and origin of the drone remain unclear, and no broader official statements have been issued.

Key Points: • A drone near Palm Beach Airport triggered a temporary ground stop during Trump's departure. • The US Secret Service denied any airspace violation related to the drone incident. • Air Force One departed safely after the ground stop was lifted.