El Paso Airspace Closed Following Military Test of New Anti-Drone Technology
February 11, 2026 — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) temporarily shut down all air traffic over El Paso late last night after the U.S. military conducted tests of a new high-energy laser system designed to intercept drones. This information was reported by multiple sources familiar with the situation and has sparked concerns about coordination between military operations and civilian aviation authorities.
The military has been developing cutting-edge laser technology aimed at neutralizing drones, particularly those deployed by Mexican drug cartels along the border region. The recent deployment intended to target what was believed to be a cartel-operated drone; however, the object turned out to be a harmless party balloon. Despite the misidentification, the incident prompted significant operational and safety concerns.
Officials within aviation circles indicated that the military did not provide adequate advance notice to FAA officials and local aviation authorities to conduct a thorough risk assessment of the technology’s implications for commercial flights. This lack of time for proper evaluation forced the FAA to make the difficult decision to halt all commercial flights arriving at and departing from El Paso International Airport temporarily. The closure lasted into the morning of February 11th, causing disruptions for travelers and local officials.
The Trump administration offered a different public rationale for the airspace closure. According to statements from the Transportation Secretary and White House representatives, a sudden surge in drone activity by Mexican cartels near the border necessitated the FAA’s emergency response. They emphasized concerns over national security threats rather than technical testing as the main cause.
Local government officials and aviation experts expressed frustration over the abrupt nature of the shutdown, citing a lack of communication and preparedness. The FAA had previously warned the Pentagon about the need for comprehensive review of the new laser technology’s safety effects. Yet, El Paso’s municipal authorities were reportedly caught off guard by the decision to ground all flights.
The exact sequence of events—whether the balloon incident alone or multiple drone-related activities prompted the FAA’s response—is still under investigation. However, the temporary closure underscores the challenges facing agencies attempting to integrate emerging military technologies with existing civilian infrastructure and safety regulations.
As El Paso’s airspace returned to normal operation, authorities stressed the importance of improved coordination to prevent similar disruptions in the future, balancing innovation in national defense with public safety and commerce.
Photo credit: Paul Ratje for The New York Times
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