Small plane intercepted during President Trump's visit to North Carolina

A civilian plane was intercepted during President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump’s visit to North Carolina after it entered the temporary flight restricted airspace Friday afternoon.

The couple visited Fort Bragg to honor members of the special forces who stormed into Venezuela and took Nicolás Maduro.  

Officials said the plane was traveling from Southern Pines in Moore County to Johnston County around 3:30 p.m. when it went into the 30-mile temporary flight restriction (TFR) zone. The TFR was scheduled from 12:45 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

The pilot did not file a flight plan which led to a North American Aerospace Defense Command F-16 fighter jet having to stop the plane, officials said in a press release. 

During the interception the fighter jet dispensed flares to help get the pilot's attention. These flares burned out quickly and posed no danger to people on the ground. 

According to Brad Abate, the Harnett Regional Jetport Director, the pilot landed at the Harnett Regional Jetport at 3:43 p.m. without incident. 

No charges have been filed for the pilot at this time. 

It is important for general aviation pilots to check Notices to Airmen, or NOTAMs, before each flight and to follow all rules by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).