FAA Grounds All Flights at El Paso Airport for 10 Days

Airspace closure cites 'special security reasons' but provides no further details

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Federal Aviation Administration has announced the closure of the airspace around El Paso International Airport in Texas for 10 days, grounding all commercial, cargo, and general aviation flights to and from the airport. The temporary flight restrictions, which do not include Mexican airspace, are cited for 'special security reasons' but no additional details have been provided.

Why it matters

El Paso is a major hub for cross-border commerce and travel between the U.S. and Mexico, serving a metropolitan area of nearly 700,000 people. The extended 10-day closure of the airport is likely to create significant disruptions to air travel and commerce in the region.

The details

The FAA notice states the airspace closure will be in effect from late Tuesday, February 11th through late on February 20th. All flights, including those operated by major airlines like Southwest, United, American, and Delta, will be grounded during this period. The airport has advised travelers to contact their airlines for the latest flight information.

  • The airspace closure will be in effect from late Tuesday, February 11, 2026 through late on February 20, 2026.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration

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 metropolitan area, which is a hub for cross-border commerce and travel between the U.S. and Mexico.

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The takeaway

The extended 10-day closure of the El Paso airport airspace is likely to have significant impacts on air travel and commerce in the region, underscoring the need for clear communication from authorities about the reasons behind such sweeping security measures and their potential economic consequences.