El Paso Airspace Closed After Military Drone Test

Shutdown blindsided local officials as FAA reviewed safety risks of new anti-drone technology

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The federal government shut down El Paso's airspace late last night after the U.S. military tried new anti-drone technology without giving aviation officials ample time to assess the risks to commercial airlines. The official explanation cited a sudden incursion of drones from Mexican cartels, but the aviation officials had determined they did not have enough time to review whether the new technology could pose risks to other aircraft.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the challenges of integrating new military technology into civilian airspace, as well as the ongoing efforts to combat drone threats from drug cartels along the U.S.-Mexico border.

The details

The military has been developing high-energy laser technology to intercept and destroy drones, including those used by Mexican drug cartels. Military officials deployed it earlier this week against what they thought was a cartel drone, but which turned out to be a party balloon. The aviation officials had warned the Pentagon, but their decision to halt all flights blindsided El Paso officials.

  • The airspace was shut down late last night.
  • The airspace was reopened this morning.

The players

U.S. Military

Developing new anti-drone technology, including high-energy lasers, to combat threats from Mexican drug cartels.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

Responsible for assessing the safety risks of new military technology and coordinating with the aviation industry.

Trump Administration

Provided an official explanation for the airspace shutdown, citing a sudden incursion of drones from Mexican cartels.

El Paso Officials

Were blindsided by the FAA's decision to halt all flights to and from the city.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The FAA will continue to review the safety risks of the military's new anti-drone technology before determining if and when the airspace can be fully reopened.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for better coordination and communication between the military, aviation regulators, and local officials when it comes to testing and deploying new technologies that could impact civilian airspace.