An FAA temporary flight restriction is limiting drone operations across a broad area around Palm Beach, Florida, while security measures are increased near Mar-a-Lago and Palm Beach International Airport during President Donald J. Trump’s visit.
Listed in NOTAM 6/3803, the restriction began at 7:59 p.m. on October 30 and is scheduled to remain in effect until 12:30 p.m. on November 1, local time. The affected airspace extends to 17,999 feet above sea level within a 30-nautical-mile radius of Palm Beach. Additional limits apply inside a 10-nautical-mile radius.
Large area affected
The restricted area reaches well beyond the immediate vicinity of Mar-a-Lago. The reported footprint includes communities from southern Martin County toward the Pompano Beach area, including Jupiter, West Palm Beach, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach and Boca Raton. A map shared by drone photographer Paul Dabill showed the outer boundary extending approximately 34.5 miles from its center.
| Restriction detail | Reported information |
|---|---|
| FAA notice | NOTAM 6/3803 |
| Start | 7:59 p.m. on October 30, local time |
| End | 12:30 p.m. on November 1, local time |
| Outer radius | 30 nautical miles |
| Upper limit | 17,999 feet above sea level |
The FAA says TFRs cover drones as well as crewed aircraft. Drone flights within restricted airspace require authorization, meaning local operators must check the applicable notice before launching rather than relying on the absence of a visible enforcement presence. The restriction also places limits on private aviation in the area.
“The FAA restriction, NOTAM 6/3803, began at 7:59 p.m. Friday and is scheduled to end at 12:30 p.m. Sunday.”
CBS12 reported that security activity had increased around Mar-a-Lago and the airport. The report described radar systems positioned on the Southern Boulevard Bridge, air-defense equipment on a barge near Mar-a-Lago and three launchers at the airport. Officials did not identify the systems or disclose operational details.
Counter-drone support requested
The Secret Service told CBS12 that it had requested military counter-drone support and was operating in a heightened threat environment. The agency also said there was no indication of a specific threat. The reported measures are intended to address aerial risks, including drones, as the president remains in the Palm Beach area through at least part of November 1.
- The TFR applies to drones and other aircraft.
- Flights inside the restricted airspace require authorization.
- The restriction covers areas from southern Martin County toward Pompano Beach.
