Spirit Airlines pilots scolded for approaching Air Force One

In the United States, an incident involving a commercial flight occurred when the pilots of Spirit Airlines flight 1300 were instructed by air traffic controllers to divert from their flight path on September 17, 2025. The flight was traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Boston while Air Force One was transporting President Donald Trump, First Lady Melania Trump, and several dignitaries to the United Kingdom for a state visit. This situation unfolded over Long Island, where the two aircraft were on converging paths, prompting urgent commands for the pilots to change their course to ensure safety. As the Spirit flight approached, controllers repeatedly directed the pilots to turn 20 degrees to the right to avoid close proximity to Air Force One. According to recorded communications, air traffic controllers were adamant about their instructions, clearly indicating the distance of the military aircraft and expressing frustration toward the Spirit pilots for not responding as quickly as necessary. The commands included phrases like, "Pay attention," and "Get off the iPad," highlighting concerns over the pilots' focus during this critical situation. Despite the tense nature of this encounter, it was noted that the Spirit Airlines flight was never at a distance deemed unsafe by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, the proximity to such a high-profile aircraft raised alarm for air traffic controllers, concerned about the implications of an aviation incident involving Air Force One. When queried about the event, a spokesperson for Spirit Airlines affirmed that the flight adhered to appropriate procedures and instructions from air traffic control and subsequently landed safely at Boston Logan International Airport. This occurrence calls into question the alertness and attentiveness of pilots operating in close quarters to significant figures such as the President. As air travel continues to be an essential mode of transport, especially for important state functions, safety in the air remains a pivotal concern. The interaction between commercial aviation and military flights needs careful regulation to preempt potential mishaps. Airlines might be compelled to emphasize pilot training on handling similar situations and reinforce compliance with air traffic control instructions at all times.