The unexpected suspension of airspace over El Paso, Texas, appears linked to US federal drone-related operations, according to defence officials and US media reports.
Authorities initially announced a 10-day restriction late Tuesday, though it ended only hours later. The abrupt decision caused widespread concern among residents and local leaders, with El Paso’s mayor calling the disruption unnecessary.
The US Department of Defense said the issue stemmed from efforts to disable drones allegedly used by Mexican cartels. Reports by CBS News indicated the closure followed a military technology test involving a high-energy laser designed to bring down drones near a base close to El Paso International Airport.
Confusion between agencies and city leaders
US transportation officials later confirmed the Federal Aviation Administration worked with the Pentagon to address a reported drone incursion before lifting restrictions Wednesday morning. The BBC has not independently verified claims of a dispute between the agencies, and the Pentagon declined detailed comment.
El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson said city authorities received no advance warning, fuelling fears among residents of a potential military escalation. He noted the city had not experienced comparable flight restrictions since the 11 September 2001 attacks.
Medical evacuation flights were diverted during the shutdown, and at least one aircraft carrying surgical equipment failed to arrive, according to the mayor. Local officials and councillors also criticised the lack of notice to governments and air traffic controllers.
Mexico denies knowledge of drone activity
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said her government had no information indicating drone operations at the border and invited US authorities to share any evidence directly.
Long-term airspace closures remain rare in the United States. The restricted zone covered a 10-mile radius around El Paso, including parts of southern New Mexico.
Security experts say cartels increasingly use drones for surveillance and human-smuggling coordination rather than attacks. In Mexico’s interior, however, some criminal groups have deployed drones capable of dropping explosives.
Despite frequent unauthorised drone sightings near the border, officials have not clarified why the reported incident prompted such a sweeping El Paso airspace closure.
Source: BBC
Also read: FAA shuts El Paso airport for 10 days over security concerns
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