Federal Agencies Abruptly Ground El Paso Flights After Security Incident
EL PASO, Texas — Flights in and out of El Paso International Airport were unexpectedly halted early Wednesday after federal authorities temporarily closed the airspace for “special security reasons.” The restriction was lifted after several hours, but it triggered confusion, stranded travelers, and questions from local officials about what happened.
What Happened
Late Tuesday night, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a notice restricting all flights to and from El Paso International Airport for up to 10 days, a rare move typically reserved for major emergencies. Airlines and travelers received little warning, and passengers attempting to depart or arrive were left in limbo.
The closure was lifted the next morning, and all flights resumed normally.
Why It Was Shut Down
Officials later said the action was tied to a response to what they described as a “cartel drone incursion” near the U.S.-Mexico border. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said federal agencies acted swiftly to neutralize the threat and determined there was no longer danger to commercial aviation.
Conflicting Accounts and Military Technology
According to multiple reports, a dispute between the Pentagon and the FAA over the use of a laser counter-drone system near the airport may have contributed to the dramatic airspace action. Sources familiar with the matter said a military anti-drone laser — designed to disable unmanned aerial vehicles — was being deployed by Customs and Border Protection at Fort Bliss, prompting the FAA to restrict airspace to ensure civilian flight safety.
It was not immediately clear whether the laser was ever fired or whether it hit a hostile drone or a non-threatening object. Some officials later raised questions about how the situation was handled and why local authorities were not notified in advance.
Confusion and Criticism
Local and federal lawmakers expressed frustration over the lack of clear information. Rep. Veronica Escobar, whose district includes El Paso, said she was not informed beforehand and that details from federal agencies did not fully align.
The abrupt closure had the potential to disrupt commercial travel, medical flights, and cargo operations in a region that handles millions of passengers a year.
What It Means
Airport ground stops or airspace closures are uncommon and typically associated with weather emergencies or significant safety hazards. For the FAA to halt flights for “special security reasons” without clear public explanation is unusual and raised concerns about communication and coordination among federal agencies.
The FAA and Department of Transportation have not released full details publicly, and officials did not immediately respond to requests for clarification.