Pilot Repeatedly Ignored Controller With Air Force One Just 8 Miles Away

A Spirit Airlines pilot was reprimanded by air traffic control on Tuesday (September 16) for not promptly responding to instructions while Air Force One flew approximately eight miles away. The incident occurred as both aircraft flew parallel over Long Island. Air Force One was transporting President Donald Trump to the United Kingdom, while Spirit Flight 1300 was en route from Fort Lauderdale to Boston Logan International Airport.

According to audio captured by LiveATC.net and reviewed by CNN, the New York Center air traffic controller instructed, "Spirit 1300, turn 20 degrees right." After a five-second silence, the controller repeated the command, saying, "Pay attention, Spirit 1300. Turn 20 degrees right." It took two additional attempts before the pilot acknowledged the instruction and complied.

The controller further highlighted the proximity of Air Force One, stating, "Spirit 1300, traffic is off of your left wing by eight miles. 747. I’m sure you can see who it is. Keep an eye out for him, he’s white and blue." Later, when the Spirit pilot again failed to respond promptly, the controller remarked, "I got to talk to you twice every time. Pay attention, get off of the iPad."

The Federal Aviation Administration did not respond to requests for comment on the incident.

Spirit Airlines stated that their pilots "followed procedures and Air Traffic Control instructions while en route to Boston," emphasizing that safety is their top priority. However, the reason for the pilot's delayed response remains unclear. Pilots are trained to prioritize flying the aircraft over communication.