Why are fighter jets flying over New Jersey? What we know as sightings spark confusion

Fighter jets circling over New Jersey sparked confusion and Trump visit rumors, later linked to a flyover before the Jets–Dolphins game at MetLife Stadium.

Updated on: Dec 8, 2025, 24:20:31 IST

By Shamik Banerjee

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Multiple fighter jets were spotted flying over New Jersey on Sunday afternoon, sparking confusion among residents.

Representational image. (Representational)

Photos and videos surfaced that showed at least four F-18 jets - one large and three small circling in the sky. It made people wonder whether President Donald Trump was visiting the state and whether the jets were part of his security. However, President Trump is not visiting NJ on Sunday.

Some reports claimed that the fighter jets performed a flyover at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, ahead of the New York Jets vs Miami Dolphins NFL game on Sunday.

Here are the videos:

So, Why Were The Fighter Jets Over New Jersey?

It appears that the fighter jets spotted by New Jersey residents on Sunday afternoon were indeed flying to the NFL game between the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium. A flyover was indeed scheduled at the stadium on ahead of the game, which kicked off at 1:00 p.m. ET.

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While some people reported seeing the jets as they went to the MetLife Stadium for the show, others saw them when they returned. Here's another video shared on social media:

Here's another video:

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/us-news/why-are-fighter-jets-flying-over-new-jersey-what-we-know-as-sightings-spark-confusion-101765131607371.html

A flyover at an NFL game, a fairly regular feature at other US sports events, as well, are meant as tributes (e.g. military appreciation), patriotic nods, or ceremonies that add spectacle and honor the armed forces.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Shamik Banerjee
Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.Read More

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