Biden Flies Commercial, Faces Delays Like Other Passengers

Former president spotted at Reagan National Airport, takes commercial flight to South Carolina

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Former President Joe Biden was spotted at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C. on Friday, waiting for a commercial flight to South Carolina like any other passenger. Biden, known for his love of Amtrak, was accompanied by a Secret Service detail as he boarded the small commuter jet, chatting with fellow travelers and posing for selfies along the way.

Why it matters

Biden's decision to fly commercial rather than using private transportation highlights his down-to-earth persona and connection to everyday Americans, in contrast with the elite travel accommodations typically afforded to former presidents. This incident also underscores the realities of air travel delays that all passengers face, even those who previously held the nation's highest office.

The details

Biden was spotted at a crowded commuter gate at Reagan National Airport on Friday, as a ground stop due to foggy weather caused delays for numerous passengers. Word quickly spread that the former president was among the travelers, and Biden was seen sitting in the third row of the first class cabin, chatting with fellow passengers and posing for selfies as he boarded the flight ahead of others.

  • Biden was spotted at Reagan National Airport on Friday, February 27, 2026.
  • Biden's flight was delayed for about an hour due to the ground stop.

The players

Joe Biden

The 46th President of the United States, who left office in 2025 and is now traveling commercially like any other passenger.

U.S. Secret Service

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting former presidents, who accompanied Biden on his commercial flight.

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What they’re saying

“God bless you, sir,”

— A woman (arlnow.com)

“Thank you for your service,”

— A man (arlnow.com)

“I feel like I'm about to cry,”

— The woman who sat next to Biden (arlnow.com)

What’s next

Biden is scheduled to attend an evening event with the South Carolina Democratic Party in Columbia, South Carolina.

The takeaway

Biden's decision to fly commercial rather than using private transportation highlights his down-to-earth persona and connection to everyday Americans, even as a former president. This incident also underscores the realities of air travel delays that all passengers face, regardless of their previous position of power.