Louis E. Caldera, director of the White House Military Office, said in a statement that he approved the mission last Thursday.

"While federal authorities took the proper steps to notify state and local authorities in New York and New Jersey, it's clear that the mission created confusion and disruption," he said. "I apologize and take responsibility for any distress that flight caused."

President Barack Obama was also furious when he learned of the episode on Monday afternoon, the New York Times reported, quoting his aides.