Aviate, Navigate, Communicate

A pilot of a Cessna violated restricted airspace around Camp David Saturday, and the pilot was questioned and released. The aircraft was intercepted about eight miles from the presidential retreat by two F-16 fighters around 2245 Saturday.

The plane was forced to land at Frederick Municipal Airport where the pilot was questioned. He was released later without being charged.

Media reports had indicated that a man and woman were on board the aircraft, but a Secret Service official did not confirm that information. Information available on this incident is sparse, but it's yet another embarrassment to general aviation.

The restricted airspace is marked on aeronautical charts, and obviously, should be avoided. But what is Camp David anyway? Originally established in 1942 by President Roosevelt, "Shangri-La" was set up as a safe place for the president to escape the heat of Washington, DC. President Eisenhower renamed the place Camp David in 1953 to honor his grandson.

The retreat is located about 70 miles away from the White House, in the Catoctin Mountain Park at the northern edge of Maryland. Navy and Marine Personnel operate the camp. Many historic meetings have been held there. Just don't fly near it, or you'll meet some fighter jets.

FMI: www.faa.gov, www.whitehouse.gov/whmo/camp-david.html