Trump uses smaller staircase to board Air Force One after possible sniper threat near airport

Amid tight security, US President Donald Trump boarded Air Force One on Sunday using a smaller staircase, following the discovery of a suspected sniper position near Palm Beach International Airport, according to media reports.

The US Secret Service reportedly identified what appeared to be an elevated structure resembling a hunting stand with a direct line of sight to the area where Air Force One typically lands and departs. The discovery was made ahead of Trump’s return to West Palm Beach.

FBI Director Kash Patel, speaking to Fox News, confirmed that although no individuals were located at the scene, federal investigators have now taken over the case. “The FBI has assumed control of the investigation,” Patel said, noting that specialised teams and advanced surveillance tools have been deployed to process the site and gather evidence, including cellphone data analysis.

This latest incident comes just weeks after two separate assassination attempts targeting Trump, heightening concerns about his security. As a precaution, Trump was seen boarding the aircraft quickly and via a shorter mobile stairway, a departure from standard procedures.