Airspace Over El Paso Reopened After Drone Incident

Thu Feb 12 2026 00:05:51 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The US Department of Defense has lifted a temporary airspace restriction in El Paso, Texas, implemented due to a reported drone incursion, ensuring safety for commercial flights.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has reopened the airspace over El Paso after 10 days of restrictions due to a drone incursion believed to involve operations linked to drug cartels. Local leaders criticized the lack of communication regarding the closure, which caused confusion and disruption, including the diversion of medical flights. The sudden closure raised public concern and speculation about national security.

The US Department of Defense took action to disable drones that it said were part of an incursion over El Paso, Texas, which sits on the border with Mexico, and has lifted its order to shut down the area's airspace for 10 days.

The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region, said Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy in a post on X.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Tuesday night suddenly ordered flights in and out of the El Paso International Airport to be halted until February 20, causing shock and confusion among local residents and elected leaders.

By Wednesday morning, the agency stated that the restrictions had been lifted and flights could resume.

Local officials expressed their frustration over not being notified about the closure. El Paso City Council member Chris Canales and Mayor Renard Johnson noted that they were alerted only through messages and calls during the night.

This sudden closure, covering a 10-mile radius around El Paso, raised concerns among residents, especially as it disrupted medical evacuation flights and other essential travel.

Mick Mulroy, a former US Marine and CIA officer, indicated that the initial move to close airspace may have been prudent given the potential risks associated with cartel drones operating in the area.

Drones have been increasingly used along the US-Mexico border for surveillance and smuggling operations, particularly pertaining to human trafficking, prompting officials to take necessary precautions.

The abruptness of this restriction is noteworthy, as long-term airspace closures are uncommon in this region. Residents and officials alike continue to seek clarity on what prompted such drastic measures.