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Pilot Investigated for Entering Restricted Airspace

NEWARK, N.J. -- Federal aviation authorities are investigating why a pilot strayed into restricted airspace in northern New Jersey during President Bush's visit to the United Nations in New York.

Two U.S. Air Force fighter jets on Tuesday had to force the small plane out of restricted airspace about five miles northeast of Morristown Airport, said Jim Peters, a spokesman for the Federal Aviation Administration.

The plane left the restricted area after being approached by the F-16 fighters, and landed at Old Bridge Airport in Middlesex County at about 10:30 a.m.

The pilot, whom authorities would not identify, was released without charges.

FAA investigators will review the circumstances of the intrusion for several days, then discuss their findings with staff lawyers before forwarding to agency headquarters in Washington a recommendation on whether punitive action should take place, Peters said. Pilots who violate restricted airspace can be fined or face loss of their license.

The airspace restrictions are in effect in the New York City area from Sept. 15 to 29 for the United Nations General Assembly, according to the FAA Web site.

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