Air Force One returning to Florida: Best spot to watch and take selfies
Air Force One frequently makes stops in West Palm Beach, with the presidential airplane drawing attention from locals and visitors alike. Whether President Trump's plane is landing or taking off, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse and even snap a photo.
It appears Trump is heading home to Palm Beach for Super Bowl weekend, though he will attend the game in New Orleans. The Federal Aviation Administration recently issued temporary flight restrictions for the airspace over Palm Beach and Mar-a-Lago, signaling his visit. The restrictions will go into effect at 4:45 p.m. Friday and end at 5:30 p.m. Sunday.
Friday evening at Mar-a-Lago has another special event planned. Republican senators and their spouses are invited to a private dinner.
Spectators can capture images of Air Force One from a grassy lot near Atlantic Aviation. Here's everything you need to know about Air Force One and how to see it up close in West Palm Beach.
More: Trump's Air Force One airplane color change: 5 things to know
The Air Force is set to receive entirely new Air Force One aircraft, replacing the current fleet with advanced, state-of-the-art planes, according to the Air Force. It will feature enhanced communications and security systems, designed to provide the president and staff with the same capabilities as the White House.
When Trump travels as president, Air Force One lands at Palm Beach International Airport before being moved to Atlantic Aviation on Southern Blvd in West Palm Beach.
When Air Force One arrives at the PBIA, only invited guests are allowed on the tarmac, where the president may wave and occasionally sign autographs. However, spectators can find spots near Palm Beach International Airport (PBIA) to watch the aircraft land or take off.
There is a grassy lot in front of the Atlantic Aviation building where people often gather to take photos and videos of the planes. Many have parked there to capture images of #TrumpForceOne, which, as of Jan. 27, 2025, has over 5,000 posts on Instagram.
While there is one primary Air Force One jet used for the president, there is also a backup aircraft, called Air Force Two when the vice president is aboard. Both jets are modified Boeing 747s and are kept ready to ensure continuity in case of emergency.
More: Melbourne to Mar-a-Lago, Trump motorcade at Palm Beach airport, Air Force One selfie: Here's a guide
Air Force One is a highly secure, mobile command center for the U.S. President, equipped with advanced communication systems, medical facilities, and defensive technology, according to the Air Force.
The aircraft is often accompanied by fighter jets, such as F-16s or F-22 Raptors, for additional protection.
These jets are deployed to ensure the safety of the president, intercepting any potential threats. Air Force One's combination of advanced technology and military support makes it one of the most secure aircraft in the world, capable of keeping the President operational even in emergencies.
Diamond Walker is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at dkwalker@gannett.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Air Force One in West Palm Beach Florida: Watch and take photos
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