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Texas Democrat Shares Update on Sudden FAA Flight Restrictions Over El Paso
Congresswoman Veronica Escobar says there is "no immediate threat" despite the unprecedented 10-day airport closure.
Published on Feb. 11, 2026
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U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar, a Democrat whose district includes El Paso, Texas, said her office has gathered information about the sudden 10-day Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) that has halted flights to and from the city's international airport. Escobar stated there is "no immediate threat to the community or surrounding areas" despite the "highly consequential decision" by the FAA, and she has urged the agency to lift the temporary flight restrictions.
Why it matters
The sudden and unexplained FAA-imposed flight restrictions over El Paso have caused significant concern within the community, as the airport closure disrupts travel and commerce in the region. Escobar's statement aims to provide some clarity and reassurance to local residents about the situation.
The details
According to Escobar, her office and the City of El Paso were not given any advance notice about the FAA's decision to impose the 10-day NOTAM, which has halted all flights to and from the El Paso International Airport. The exact reason for the flight restrictions remains unconfirmed, but Escobar has stated there is no immediate threat to the local community.
- The FAA imposed the 10-day NOTAM over El Paso on February 11, 2026.
The players
Veronica Escobar
A U.S. Representative whose congressional district includes El Paso, Texas.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
The U.S. government agency responsible for the regulation and oversight of civil aviation.
What they’re saying
“The highly consequential decision by FAA to shut down the El Paso Airport for 10 days is unprecedented and has resulted in significant concern within the community.”
— Veronica Escobar, U.S. Representative (X)
“From what my office and I have been able to gather overnight and early this morning there is no immediate threat to the community or surrounding areas. There was no advance notice provided to my office, the City of El Paso, or anyone involved in airport operations.”
— Veronica Escobar, U.S. Representative (X)
What’s next
Escobar has urged the FAA to immediately lift the temporary flight restrictions placed on the El Paso area, and she has stated that she will continue to make information public as she learns more about the situation.
The takeaway
The sudden and unexplained FAA-imposed flight restrictions over El Paso have caused significant disruption and concern within the local community, highlighting the need for greater transparency and communication from federal agencies when making decisions that impact regional transportation and commerce.
