The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed permanent special flight rules around Trump International Airport in Palm Beach, Florida, to tighten security over Mar-a-Lago while still preserving access for scheduled commercial, emergency and law-enforcement flights. The restriction would cover a one-nautical-mile zone up to 2,000 feet and formalise protections that have so far been handled through temporary measures.
The proposal follows a request from the U.S. Secret Service, which cited adverse threat intelligence and risks from unauthorised aircraft and drones. Under the plan, commercial aircraft could continue to transit the airspace if they follow established procedures, including two-way communication with air traffic control, approved clearance and transponder requirements. Emergency and lifesaving aircraft would also retain access.
The move matters for airport operations because, without an exception, the restricted area would effectively render the main runway unusable. The airport, formerly Palm Beach International Airport, sits close to Mar-a-Lago, and the current temporary protections were due to expire later in 2026. The proposal now opens the way for a standing Special Flight Rules Area rather than a security regime tied only to Trump’s visits.