Short Notice Pop-Up TFRs Likely After Inauguration

The inauguration of President Donald Trump took place on January 20, 2025, signaling the return of Presidential TFRs to Palm Beach International Airport (KPBI) in Florida whenever he travels to Mar-a-Lago Club for those weekends he decides to work or relax outside of Washington, D.C.

Many, if not most readers remember the inconvenience and delays those TFRs brought to the area during Trump’s first administration. This time around they are anticipated to be even more inconvenient with perhaps longer delays, at least during the first few months of his term while folks adjust.

One reason is that private jet travel in and out of PBI totaled 87,297 movements in 2024, 55% higher than in 2017. In his first term, Trump was typically at Mar -a-Lago multiple times a month during the season. And he was usually there from Thursday to Sunday.

The FAA said in a presentation for operators that when a TFR is active, private jet travelers must depart or transit through five gateway airports. These include Westchester County (KHPN) in White Plains, New York; Teterboro (KTEB) in Teterboro, New Jersey, the busiest airport in the world serving private jets and the principal one serving Manhattan; Dulles International (KIAD) just outside Washington, D.C.; Orlando International (KMCO) and Fort Lauderdale International (KFLL) in Florida.

Reservation slots will be used, and operators must register with TSA at the preferred airport at least 24 hours prior to departure. Flyers – passengers and crew – departing from PBI must go through TSA screening. TSA screening will only be available between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. with the last slot at 4:45 p.m., which will impact passengers as well as crews of private jets on repositioning flights.

In addition, TFRs will not be announced any earlier than 72 hours before they become active.

Pilots and operators should plan in advance of any trips to the airports mentioned as well as check NOTAMS frequently. The FAA presentation is available for to view at FBOs including Signature, Atlantic Aviation, Jet Aviation, and a private NetJets terminal. 

FMI: www.faa.gov/