El Paso Airspace Shutdown After Military Tests New Anti-Drone Technology
By Matthew Cullen
February 11, 2026
El Paso — The airspace over El Paso was closed late Tuesday night following a secretive military test of cutting-edge anti-drone technology, according to multiple sources familiar with the event. The U.S. government temporarily halted all flights into and out of El Paso International Airport to facilitate the operation, sparking confusion and concern among local officials and the aviation community.
The military has been developing high-energy laser systems designed to intercept and destroy unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). These new technologies have been part of efforts to counteract drones used by Mexican drug cartels to smuggle contraband across the border. Earlier this week, the military deployed the laser system against an object suspected to be a cartel drone. However, the target turned out to be a party balloon.
Despite aviation officials raising concerns about the potential risks this new laser technology could pose to commercial air traffic, the military proceeded with the test without providing adequate time for thorough risk assessment. According to four individuals briefed on the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was caught off guard and made the decision to shut down the airspace to ensure safety.
In a statement, the Trump administration attributed the sudden suspension of flights to an influx of drones believed to be operated by Mexican cartels. Transportation Secretary and White House officials maintained that these drone incursions forced the FAA to act quickly to halt air traffic in the area.
The airspace restrictions were lifted Wednesday morning after the FAA completed its evaluation. It remains unclear whether the closure was triggered solely by the balloon incident or a combination of multiple suspected drone incursions. Aviation authorities have warned the Pentagon about the importance of coordinating testing procedures with civilian air traffic controllers to mitigate safety risks in future operations.
El Paso city officials expressed surprise at the abrupt closure, noting that they were not informed in advance about the military’s plans or the resulting disruption to commercial flights. El Paso International Airport, a vital hub for both passenger and cargo transport, experienced delays and cancellations due to the sudden and unexpected shutdown.
As the military continues to develop and test advanced counter-drone technologies, the incident underscores the challenges of integrating new defense measures with civilian aviation safety. It also highlights the ongoing struggle to combat cross-border drone activity linked to illicit drug trafficking.
Photo credit: Paul Ratje for The New York Times
For further updates, visit The New York Times.
