Donald Trump stunned NFL fans on Sunday with a moment nobody saw coming: a low-altitude flyover by Air Force One above Northwest Stadium, just before kickoff between the Detroit Lions and the Washington Commanders. The dramatic entrance instantly set social media on fire.
Inside the stadium, his arrival sparked a mixed reaction. Boos from some, cheers from others — the president split the 67,000 spectators as he attended the game during the team’s “Salute to Service” event in tribute to military members ahead of Veterans Day.
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During halftime, Trump swore in several military personnel, appearing momentarily taken aback by part of the crowd’s reaction.
A massive Air Force One stealing the show
Earlier, stepping off the plane, he had already celebrated the spectacle, calling it “the greatest flyover ever” and praising the skill of the Air Force One pilots.
And even when the Commanders closed the gap with a touchdown, many fans were still fixated on what had happened above them: a colossal Air Force One roaring past at an astonishingly low altitude — the defining image of the day.
Air Force One flies over Northwest Stadium during the Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions game! 🏈🇺🇸 pic.twitter.com/0pajnpc3bj
— Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) November 9, 2025
President Trump arriving at the Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions game in style.
This goes so hard.
pic.twitter.com/zRXR8fTSbu
— Benny Johnson (@bennyjohnson) November 9, 2025
