New York Air Traffic Control was forced to order pilots to “get off the iPad” after flying too close to Air Force One. The Spirit Airlines flight was passing over New York state on Tuesday when it failed to respond to four commands telling it to change course.
The air traffic control responder, grew increasingly frustrated with the civilian airliner, as it failed to respond to an order telling it to turn right and avoid the flight path of President Donald Trump. The unnamed New York controller said: “Spirit 1300 turn 20 degrees right, vector for traffic in descent. Pay attention. Spirit 1300, turn 20 degrees right.”
After hearing no response, he added bluntly: “Spirit 1300, turn 20 degrees right now.”
The incident came to light after being posted on the social media app BlueSky by user xJonNYC.
The controller, whose tone was becoming increasingly irritated attempted to warn the pilots about the VIP plane it was being order to steer clear of.
They said: “Spirit 1300, traffic’s off your left wing by six miles – or eight miles, 747, I’m sure you can see who it is. It’s flight level 320, you maintain 330.
“Keep an eye out for me, white and blue.”
The colours refer to the outside of the presidential plane which is a Boeing 747 specially adapted for the US president’s communications and security needs whilst in flight.
The incident happened on Tuesday morning as the passenger flight passed over Long Island as it made its way from Fort Lauderdale into Boston Logan International Airport.
There is currently no suggestion that any safety infringements took place or that the safety of the president was put in danger at any point.
At the time, Air Force One was taking off from Washington DC, as it made its way towards London ahead of Donald Trump’s historic second state visit.
Donald Trump landed at Stanstead Airport last night after hailing the “great honour” of being hosted by his “friend” the King at Windsor Castle.
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper was among those greeting the US President as he disembarked Air Force One at London Stansted airport on Tuesday evening.
RAF personnel from The King’s Colour Squadron lined up as he stepped off the plane, forming a guard of honour.
On Wednesday, he visited Windsor Castle, where he was treated to a ceremonial welcome and a lavish state banquet.
There are no public-facing engagements for the president, with thousands expected to take part in major protests against his two-day stay.
