El Paso Airport Temporarily Grounded Over Military Drone Tests
Flights at El Paso International Airport in Texas were temporarily grounded on Wednesday after the U.S. military conducted drone defense technology tests, according to multiple sources. The tests, near Fort Bliss, involved technology capable of disabling drones, raising safety concerns for commercial aviation.
FAA Issues Temporary Flight Restriction
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) notice in response to the military testing near the airport. The restriction initially halted all flights out of El Paso for 10 days, citing “special security reasons,” though it was later lifted without explanation.
Some sources said the restriction was issued while the FAA confirmed whether the tests could safely coexist with commercial flights.
Military Drone Defense Technology Tested
According to three sources, the tests involved high-energy lasers designed to protect against drones, including those potentially used by Mexican drug cartels to cross the U.S. border.
While a Trump administration official told NBC News that the Defense Department had disabled cartel drones, the Pentagon has not confirmed any drone takedowns. Sources added that the military recently shot down a small party balloon as part of testing.
Miscommunication Between FAA and Defense Department
Two sources suggested the grounding resulted from miscommunication or disagreement between the FAA and the Defense Department over how the tests might affect commercial aviation. Lawmakers were reportedly told that the counter-drone exercises had not been coordinated with the FAA, leading to the temporary airspace closure.
El Paso Mayor Criticizes Flight Restriction
El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson called the TFR “unnecessary” and said it caused confusion across the city.
Medical evacuation flights were rerouted to Las Cruces, New Mexico, approximately 45 miles away. Johnson said all flights, including emergency aviation, were grounded, creating a disruption not seen in El Paso since 9/11.
FAA’s Flight Restriction Details
The FAA notice covered airspace over El Paso and Santa Teresa, New Mexico, from February 11 to February 21. The airspace was classified as national defense airspace, warning that aircraft posing an “imminent security threat” could face deadly force, and pilots violating the order might be intercepted or questioned by authorities.
El Paso International, which serves major airlines such as Southwest, Delta, United, and American, confirmed that all flights—including commercial, cargo, and general aviation—were grounded during the restriction.
Mexican Government Response
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government has seen no evidence of drone activity near the border.
“If the FAA or any U.S. agency has relevant information, they can contact Mexico directly,” she said. “There’s no room for speculation.”
Airport Staff Surprised by Sudden Closure
A recording captured by LiveATC.net, which monitors air traffic control, revealed that airport staff were notified only shortly before the restriction took effect.
“Just be advised, I guess there’s a TFR going into effect,” an air traffic controller said. “Just pass it on to Southwest and everybody else. Starting at 0630 for the next 10 days, we’re stopped. All ground stop.”
When a flight crew asked for confirmation, the controller replied: “Apparently. We just got informed about 30 minutes to an hour ago.”
