FAA Proposes Permanent Flight Restrictions Around Mar-a-Lago

The Federal Aviation Administration proposed permanent flight restrictions on September 1, 2026, to secure the airspace around the Mar-a-Lago residence of President Donald Trump in Palm Beach, Florida. The proposal establishes a Special Flight Rules Area extending one nautical mile around the residence from the surface up to 2,000 feet.

Initiated at the request of the U.S. Secret Service, the measures respond to adverse threat intelligence and national security concerns, including a June plot involving explosive-laden drones. To ensure the primary commercial runway at President Donald J. Trump International Airport remains usable, the FAA opted for a special rules area rather than a prohibited zone. Aircraft transiting the zone must use assigned transponder codes, maintain two-way communication with air traffic control, and follow approved flight plans. Exceptions remain for emergency, lifesaving, and law enforcement aircraft.

The proposal has drawn criticism from local governments in Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach, and Boca Raton, which challenge the FAA over increased aircraft noise in residential neighborhoods. Additionally, some security experts argue that these airspace designations are insufficient to deter adversaries using commercial drones. The restrictions are currently subject to the federal rulemaking process before they can become permanent.