FAA Proposes Permanent Flight Restrictions Near Mar-a-Lago, Affecting Palm Beach Air Travel

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes establishing permanent Special Air Traffic Rules (SATR) for a one-nautical-mile area around Mar-a-Lago. This proposal directly impacts local air travel, particularly for those operating out of President Donald J. Trump International Airport (DJT), formerly Palm Beach International Airport.

This new rule would replace the FAA's current temporary special security flight restriction, which expires on October 20, 2026. The proposed rules create a Special Flight Rules Area (SFRA) from the surface to 2,000 feet mean sea level (MSL) around Mar-a-Lago. Aircraft flying into or out of DJT would be allowed to transit this area only if they meet specific requirements. Certain military, law enforcement, firefighting, and air ambulance operations would also be permitted.

The FAA states this proposed rule would largely maintain the security requirements currently in place while allowing continued use of the airport's runways. However, more restrictive Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) under 14 CFR § 91.141 would still apply when the President or other protected individuals are in the Palm Beach area.

The FAA's proposal follows a September 2025 request from the U.S. Secret Service for a permanent flight restriction near Mar-a-Lago, citing national security concerns.

The FAA is accepting public comments on this proposal through October 2, 2026. Residents and interested members of the public can review the proposed rule and submit comments via FAA Docket: FAA-2026-10827.