FAA Halts All Flights at El Paso Airport for 10 Days

Agency cites 'special security reasons' for sweeping suspension of commercial and cargo traffic.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has suspended all flights to and from El Paso International Airport in Texas for 10 days, citing unspecified 'special security reasons'. The restriction took effect at 1:30 a.m. ET on Feb. 11 and will remain in place through 1:30 a.m. on Feb. 21, according to FAA notices covering the airspace over El Paso and nearby Santa Teresa, New Mexico. The agency did not provide further details about the security concerns behind the decision.

Why it matters

The sudden and unexplained closure of a major regional airport will significantly disrupt travel plans and cargo shipments in the El Paso area, with potential ripple effects across the Southwest. The FAA's decision raises questions about the nature of the security threat and whether it poses a broader risk to aviation safety.

The details

The FAA has not disclosed the specific reasons behind the 10-day closure of El Paso International Airport, leaving travelers and local businesses uncertain about the nature of the security concerns. The sweeping suspension affects all commercial passenger flights as well as cargo operations, potentially causing significant logistical challenges and economic impacts in the region.

  • The flight restrictions took effect at 1:30 a.m. ET on February 11, 2026.
  • The airport will remain closed through 1:30 a.m. on February 21, 2026.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)

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

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What’s next

The FAA has not provided a timeline for when it will release more information about the security reasons behind the airport closure or when normal operations may resume.

The takeaway

The sudden and unexplained shutdown of a major regional airport raises concerns about the potential for broader disruptions to air travel and commerce in the Southwest. The lack of transparency from the FAA about the security threat underscores the need for clear communication during such events to minimize public uncertainty and economic impacts.