Mr Trump’s helicopter came within what aviation experts consider an unsafe distance of a passenger jet over Washington DC, triggering a federal investigation into the alarming near miss. Mr Trump was aboard Marine One when the presidential helicopter departed from near the White House about 2.30pm on Wednesday local time (4am Thursday AEST), heading to one of his properties in Las Vegas. After receiving no response, the helicopter departed without clearance. Despite the close call, the White House insisted Mr Trump was never in danger. “Although the president was at no point in harm’s way during yesterday’s momentary loss of separation, the White House continues to work with relevant military, FAA and other security personnel to ensure the president’s continued safety,” White House spokesperson Kush Desai told the New York Times.