Texas Leaders React to Sudden El Paso Airspace Shutdown

Authorities cite unspecified security concerns as reason for closure

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Texas political leaders expressed concern and confusion over the Federal Aviation Administration's sudden decision to shut down the airspace over El Paso, Texas on Wednesday morning. The FAA has not provided specific details on the reasons behind the closure, which has disrupted air travel in the region.

Why it matters

The abrupt airspace shutdown in a major Texas border city raises questions about potential security threats or other issues that prompted the FAA's action. Texas officials are seeking more information from federal authorities to understand the situation and its implications for the region.

The details

The FAA issued a temporary flight restriction over the El Paso area early Wednesday, prohibiting all aircraft from entering the airspace. Commercial and private flights were grounded, causing delays and cancellations at El Paso International Airport. The FAA has not disclosed the specific reasons for the airspace closure, stating only that it was done "due to a temporary flight restriction for security reasons."

  • The airspace shutdown occurred overnight on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Federal Aviation Administration

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

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What they’re saying

“We are working to get more information from federal authorities about the reason for this sudden airspace closure and its potential impact on the El Paso region.”

— Greg Abbott, Governor of Texas (Texas Tribune)

“This is a highly unusual and concerning development. The public deserves to know what security issues prompted the FAA to take this action.”

— Veronica Escobar, U.S. Representative for Texas's 16th congressional district (El Paso Times)

What’s next

Texas officials have requested an immediate briefing from the FAA to understand the reasons behind the airspace closure and its potential duration.

The takeaway

The sudden shutdown of airspace over a major Texas border city has raised alarms among state and local leaders, who are seeking more transparency from federal authorities about the security concerns that prompted this highly unusual action.