Helicopter Carrying Trump Delayed After Mechanical Issue on Takeoff
A helicopter carrying former President Donald Trump experienced a brief delay during takeoff due to a mechanical issue, grounding the aircraft temporarily before alternate travel arrangements were made.
The incident occurred at Miami International Airport shortly after Trump had arrived via plane. Upon transferring to the helicopter—reportedly en route to a planned visit to a nearby golf resort—the aircraft began taxiing but came to a sudden stop and powered down unexpectedly.
Further inspection revealed the cause: a flat tire. While the malfunction temporarily paused the flight, it didn’t impact the overall travel schedule. Trump was promptly transferred to another helicopter, allowing his plans to continue without major disruption.
Routine Check Discovered Issue During Taxiing
The helicopter, typically known for its routine inspections before any high-profile flights, was being prepped for takeoff when the issue became apparent. As ground crews evaluated the aircraft, the flat tire was confirmed, leading to immediate safety protocols and a quick pivot to an alternate helicopter.
Mechanical issues like flat tires are uncommon for helicopters, especially ones maintained to high safety standards. However, aviation experts note that even minor issues can result in swift action to avoid larger risks.
Aircraft Issues on the Rise?
The incident joins a growing list of mechanical malfunctions across various aircraft globally. While overall aviation safety has steadily improved over the years, recent headlines have brought attention to concerns about equipment maintenance and oversight in both commercial and government aviation sectors.
Fortunately, in this case, the issue was minor and did not lead to any injuries or significant delays.
Travel Plans Continue Without Major Disruption
The former president’s destination, a golf course frequented on previous visits, remained unchanged after the helicopter switch. Security and logistics teams quickly rerouted the plan, and the rest of the journey proceeded as scheduled.
This minor hiccup serves as a reminder that even the most well-maintained aircraft can face unexpected technical setbacks, reinforcing the importance of rigorous pre-flight inspections and contingency plans.
In the end, while the flat tire grounded one helicopter, it barely slowed the day’s events—a testament to the preparedness of the flight and security teams managing high-profile travel.