The North American Aerospace Defense Command announced Sunday that F-16 fighter jets intercepted three general aviation aircraft after more than 10 planes violated temporary flight restrictions over Bedminster and East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The interception occurred during the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium, also known as MetLife Stadium. The match was played on Sunday, with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0 to win the tournament.
“More than 10 general aviation aircraft have entered restricted airspace today, three of which required intercepts by NORAD aircraft. During two of the intercepts, NORAD aircraft dispensed flares, which may have been visible to the public,” NORAD said in a statement.
NORAD noted that flares were employed with the “highest regard for safety,” and “pose no danger to people on the ground.”
NORAD also urged pilots to check their Notice to Airmen and Federal Aviation Administration Temporary Flight Restrictions in a post on X, saying, “#FlySafe #WeHaveTheWatch.”
FBI REPORTS OVER 300 DRONE INCURSIONS DURING WORLD CUP MATCHES
Many celebrities and prominent political figures were in attendance during the interception, including President Donald Trump, who presented the trophy to Spain, as well as Madonna, Justin Bieber, Tom Cruise, and many more
A similar security concern emerged during the first week and a half of the 2026 World Cup, including the tournament’s opening week in Los Angeles, as the FBI intercepted more than 300 unauthorized drones nationwide.
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[ H/T Washington Examiner ]
