Unprecedented Close Encounter: Spirit Airlines Plane Approaches Air Force One During Trump's UK State Visit, Pilot Admonishes 'Put Down the Tablet'

In a rare and unexpected incident, Spirit Airlines Flight 1300 came dangerously close to Air Force One, the plane carrying President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, on Tuesday morning. The planes flew parallel to each other over Long Island, New York, and were just eight miles apart when they flew closest to each other.

The close call was first spotted by aviation tracker @xjonnyc on X. According to reports, the planes crossed the same point in the path just within a minute of each other. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has since confirmed that it is conducting a preliminary investigation into the incident.

The air traffic controller was heard growing frustrated and raising his voice as he repeated orders four times, expressing his concern and urging the pilots to pay attention and get off the iPad. It is common for pilots to use tablets like iPads to access their GPS and to check the weather.

An air traffic controller had to intervene and repeatedly warned Spirit Airlines flight 1300 to move out of the way. The controller asked the pilots, "I got to talk to you twice every time?" and said, "Pay attention. Get off the iPad."

Despite the close call, both planes landed safely. Air Force One landed at London Stansted Airport, where President Trump was scheduled to meet with his longtime friend King Charles III on Wednesday. Spirit Airlines flight 1300, which was initially bound for Fort Lauderdale, eventually landed safely in Boston.

Safety is always a top priority for Spirit Airlines, and the airline has confirmed that the pilot of flight 1300 followed procedures and Air Traffic Control instructions during its flight to Boston. The pilot's identity has not been publicly disclosed.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilance and adherence to safety protocols in the aviation industry. As investigations continue, the FAA will likely provide more information about the cause of the close call and any potential measures to prevent such incidents in the future.