Photo: PAUL ELLIS / AFP / Getty Images
A Spirit Airlines pilot received a stern warning from air traffic controllers on Tuesday after flying too close to Air Force One. The Spirit flight, traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Boston, was eight miles away from President Donald Trump's plane as it flew over Long Island en route to the United Kingdom.
According to BBC News, air traffic controllers repeatedly instructed the Spirit pilot to turn 20 degrees right to maintain a safe distance. The controller's instructions included, "Pay attention. Get off the iPad." Despite the close proximity, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed that the aircraft maintained the required separation.
The incident occurred as both planes were flying parallel over New York. The Spirit flight eventually complied with the instructions and landed safely in Boston. A Spirit Airlines spokesperson stated that the pilots followed procedures and emphasized that safety is their top priority.
The situation has drawn attention due to the potential risk involved, although a preliminary investigation by the FAA shows that the required separation was maintained. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
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