Helo strays too close to Seabrook (NH) nuclear power plant during photo shoot, is intercepted

A helicopter carrying one passenger on a photographic flight to take pictures of a piece of property ventured too close to the Seabrook (NH) nuclear power plant. When ATC could not raise the pilot on radio, two fighter jets were scrambled to intercept the aircraft.

The incident took place yesterday at approximately 1430, according to SeaCoast Online.

"There was trouble contacting the pilot," said Seabrook spokesperson Al Griffith. "There was a response involving Homeland defense. The FAA was involved, per procedure. They sent a couple of fighter jets." Police were also dispatched to the site.

Eventually authorities were able to raise the pilot on the radio. "The pilot was informed to follow instructions to go to Manchester airport where he would be questioned," said Griffith.  "Pilots should know to stay away from sensitive industrial facilities like a nuclear power plant. It was near enough for our security to take notice."

FMI: http://www.fpl.com/about/nuclear/contents/nuclear_power_serves_you.shtml