Secure Biden Visit, F-35 Intercepts Small Private Plane Over San Francisco

A US Air Force (USAF) F-35A stealth fighter jet intercepted a small Mooney M20J private aircraft over San Francisco during President Joe Biden's visit to the city's Bay Area.

It was alleged that the small plane had flown without NOTAM that day.

To prevent unwanted things, the F-35A pilot immediately flew closer and performed the "Headbutt" maneuver.

The maneuver is a signal to tell the pilot to change the direction of flight because he has violated the territory.

The F-35 flew past the small single-engine aircraft over Marin County on Tuesday, the media reported.

M-20J, registration number N531DD, is privately owned.

A close-up photo of the F-35A circulating on social media shows that the F-35 is based at Hill Air Force Base, located in Davis County, Utah, judging by the code on the tail.

NORAD members confirmed on Twitter that USAF fighter pilots encountered multiple general aviation aircraft that temporarily violated flights near San Francisco on Tuesday.

"Pilots in the San Francisco area are strongly advised to check NOTAMS today and tomorrow to ensure they have the latest TFR VIP information," NORAD tweeted.

TFR is a routine action that is implemented according to the schedule and location of the President's visit.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) may also apply TFR during natural disasters, certain major sporting events, and national security situations or emergencies.

Violations of the TFR can carry severe penalties, potentially including criminal penalties of up to one year in federal prison and a fine of up to USD 100,000.

Additionally, violators can face suspension of their pilot's license or other civil penalties.

During his three-day stay in the Bay Area, Biden attended a fundraiser in Kentfield on Tuesday.

NBC News reported that Biden flew to Marin County and landed at Mackey Field at the College of Marin.

Low-flying military aircraft were seen in the Bay Area during President Biden's visit.