El Paso Airspace Closed by FAA

The airspace over United States — El Paso, Texas, was abruptly closed for several hours on February 11, 2026, due to a dispute between the United States — United States Department of Defense and the United States — Federal Aviation Administration. The United States — United States Department of Defense had planned to test an anti-drone laser, which the United States — United States Customs and Border Protection was allowed to use, to counter drones operated by List of Mexican cartels. The United States — Federal Aviation Administration, citing commercial air safety concerns, closed the airspace without full coordination with the United States — United States Department of Defense, despite a scheduled meeting to discuss the issue. This action caused significant travel disruptions, including canceled flights and rerouted medical evacuations, and drew strong criticism from local officials like Renard Johnson, Mayor of United States — El Paso, Texas, and U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar, who cited a lack of communication and transparency. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also questioned the U.S. explanation for the closure. The incident highlighted ongoing coordination issues between the United States — Federal Aviation Administration and the United States — United States Department of Defense, reminiscent of past safety concerns.