‘Get off the iPad’: Spirit Airlines Flight Pilot Scolded After Close Call With Air Force One

A Spirit Airlines flight came too close to Air Force One carrying US President Donald Trump. The incident happened on September 16, 2025, over Long Island, New York. Air traffic control issued sharp warnings to the Spirit Airlines pilot. The controller told the pilot to “pay attention” and even said “get off the iPad.”

The Spirit Airlines flight, NK1300, was traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Boston. Air Force One was crossing the same airspace. Both planes were at similar altitude levels. The close encounter forced quick instructions from air traffic control. According to recordings, the pilot was slow to follow directions, which raised concern for safety.

Spirit Airlines Flight Pilot and ATC Audio

Air traffic control instructed the Spirit Airlines pilot to turn 20 degrees right. The move was to maintain safe distance from Air Force One. However, the pilot did not respond quickly. The controller repeated the instruction several times.

When there was still no immediate response, frustration grew. The controller was then heard saying, “pay attention” and “get off the iPad.” The audio clip spread quickly on social media. It was shared by aviation trackers and news outlets. According to Reuters, both aircraft eventually kept a safe distance. No passengers were harmed and the flight continued to Boston.

The phrase “get off the iPad” became the headline moment. Many people online mocked the situation. Others questioned the professionalism of the Spirit Airlines pilot. Aviation experts noted that pilots often use tablets for flight data. However, distraction during a critical moment can lead to risk.

Why the Spirit Airlines Pilot Warning Matters

Air Force One always receives top security priority. Any plane entering its protected airspace without clearance is considered a risk. That is why air traffic control acted fast. The quick action ensured no danger to the president or passengers.

For Spirit Airlines, the incident is a serious reputational issue. The airline is often criticized for cost-cutting and service quality. This new episode adds more public scrutiny. The Federal Aviation Administration may review the matter.

Aviation analysts stress that small delays in pilot response can have major effects. Airspace near New York is among the busiest in the world. Strict rules are in place to avoid mid-air incidents. The viral audio shows how pressure can rise in seconds.

The Spirit Airlines flight pilot faced tough words from air traffic control. The phrase “get off the iPad” is now tied to this incident. Both planes kept safe distance, but the close call will be remembered.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened with the Spirit Airlines flight pilot?

A Spirit Airlines pilot was scolded by air traffic control after failing to respond quickly. The plane got too close to Air Force One over Long Island.

Q2: Why did ATC say “get off the iPad”?

The controller grew frustrated when the pilot was slow to respond. The phrase suggested the pilot was distracted during critical instructions.

Q3: Was President Trump’s flight at risk?

No. Air traffic control acted quickly. Both planes kept a safe distance after the warning.

Q4: What flight was involved in the incident?

It was Spirit Airlines flight NK1300, traveling from Fort Lauderdale to Boston. The incident took place on September 16, 2025.

Q5: Will there be an investigation?

The Federal Aviation Administration may review the matter. Such close calls are usually checked for safety procedures and pilot performance.