KUALA LUMPUR: It was no ordinary day for Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Major Ahmad Nur Ikhwan Ahmad Tridi, who was tasked with escorting precious cargo into Malaysia — Air Force One, carrying United States President Donald Trump.
The RMAF pilot flew an F/A-18D Hornet fighter jet to escort Air Force One as it entered Malaysian airspace before it landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) around 10am.
RMAF chief Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris said the mission was carried out to ensure the safety of the visiting dignitary attending the 47th Asean Summit.
“When we conduct an escort, our priority is to make sure the aircraft enters our airspace safely.
“For this mission, our Hornet joined formation with Air Force One around 80 miles before landing at KLIA,” he told the New Straits Times.
Norazlan said the mission underscored the RMAF’s commitment to maintaining airspace security and demonstrating the capability of its personnel.
“We perform our duties as required by safety and security needs. When called upon, we are ready and execute professionally,” he said, adding that the mission drew public attention and reflected confidence in the RMAF’s role in safeguarding the nation’s airspace.
Earlier today, the modified Boeing 747-200B — which serves as the flying “White House” for the US president — was seen escorted by the RMAF fighter jet before landing at KLIA.
Major Ahmad Nur Ikhwan flew with his weapons system officer, Captain Ahmad Nazhan Ahmad Nazrin.
Trump‘s visit today coincides with the 13th Asean–US Summit and the 20th East Asia Summit.
The visit was made at the invitation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, in his capacity as Asean chairman for 2025.
This marks Trump‘s first visit to Southeast Asia since returning to office as the 47th President of the United States.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
