All Flights to and From El Paso Airport Halted for 10 Days

FAA cites 'special security reasons' for temporary flight restrictions

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

All flights to and from El Paso International Airport in Texas have been canceled for 'special security reasons,' the Federal Aviation Administration announced early Wednesday. The temporary flight restrictions will be in place from February 11 to February 21.

Why it matters

The sudden and unexplained halt to all flights in and out of El Paso airport is highly unusual and raises concerns about potential security threats or other emergency situations in the region. The airport serves as a major transportation hub for West Texas and Southern New Mexico, so the disruption could have significant impacts on travel and commerce in the area.

The details

The FAA issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) stating that 'no pilots may operate an aircraft in the areas covered by this NOTAM' due to 'temporary flight restrictions for Special Security Reasons.' The restrictions cover the airspace over El Paso and the neighboring community of Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The FAA did not provide any further details on the reasons behind the flight halt.

  • The flight restrictions went into effect at 6:30 a.m. UTC (11:30 p.m. ET) on February 11, 2026.
  • The restrictions are set to end at the same time on February 21, 2026.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

The U.S. government agency responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.

El Paso International Airport

A major airport serving the city of El Paso, Texas and the surrounding region.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The FAA has not indicated when or if it will provide more details on the reasons behind the temporary flight restrictions at El Paso airport. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight status and any potential disruptions.

The takeaway

The sudden and unexplained halt to all flights in and out of a major regional airport like El Paso is highly unusual and raises concerns about potential security threats or other emergency situations in the area. The disruption could have significant impacts on travel and commerce in West Texas and Southern New Mexico.