President Trump arrived at his golf course in Doral, Florida, via helicopter, escorted by Secret Service. His Mar-a-Lago Club submitted a proposal to rebuild a larger helipad to accommodate new Marine One helicopters, requesting a 60-foot diameter pad, an increase from the previous 50-foot version. The original helipad was demolished in 2021, following a requirement from Palm Beach Town Council when the design was approved during Trump’s presidency.
The new helipad design, which is expected to be similar in depth (8 inches), would be located in the same spot as the former pad. The need for a larger pad arises as the Marine Corps recently transitioned to the Sikorsky VH-92A helicopter, which is significantly heavier than previous models. Mar-a-Lago’s attorney stated that the new pad would ensure safer landings for Marine One.
Despite the previous approval covering multiple presidential terms, the project still requires review from the Landmarks Preservation Commission. The helipad is set to be included on the commission’s agenda as early as the October 22 meeting. Given that Mar-a-Lago is a National Historic Landmark, the National Trust for Historic Preservation also reviewed the updated plans, which received their approval, confirming that the new construction would not affect historic materials or landscaping.
The first helipad faced public scrutiny regarding noise and usage, with stipulations that it was for presidential business only. Although used sparingly during Trump’s presidency, it had recorded landings by both Trump-branded helicopters and Marine One. After Trump left office, the helipad was removed promptly under town guidelines.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
