Former President Biden Flies Commercial, Faces Delays Like Other Passengers

Biden boards commuter flight at Reagan National Airport, interacts with fellow travelers

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Former President Joe Biden was spotted by fellow passengers at Reagan National Airport on Friday, as he waited to board a commuter flight to Columbia, South Carolina. Biden, known for his love of Amtrak, was forced to contend with the same travel delays affecting other passengers due to fog-related ground stops, despite being accompanied by a Secret Service detail.

Why it matters

Biden's decision to fly commercially rather than utilizing private or government-provided transportation as a former president is seen as a continuation of his everyman persona, which he cultivated during his time in the Senate and as vice president. This incident highlights the realities former presidents face in terms of reduced privileges and amenities compared to their time in office.

The details

Biden, seated in the third row of the first-class cabin, boarded the commuter flight ahead of other passengers along with his Secret Service detail. Passengers were surprised to see the former president among them, with some approaching him to offer greetings and thanks for his service. One woman who sat next to Biden said she felt like she was 'about to cry' upon realizing her seatmate was the 46th president.

  • Biden was spotted at Reagan National Airport on Friday, February 27, 2026.
  • Biden's flight was delayed for approximately one hour due to a fog-related ground stop.

The players

Joe Biden

The 46th President of the United States, who left office in 2025. Biden is known for his frequent use of Amtrak during his time as a senator and vice president.

U.S. Secret Service

The federal law enforcement agency responsible for protecting former presidents, including Biden, who receives lifelong Secret Service protection.

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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 commercially, despite his status as a former president, demonstrates his continued commitment to maintaining a relatable, everyman persona. This incident highlights the reduced privileges and amenities that former presidents face compared to their time in office, as they must contend with the same travel challenges as the general public.