White House Blames FAA for Airspace Closure Fiasco

Conflicting statements and intense finger-pointing expose tensions between federal agencies over drone defense system deployment.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The surprise closure of the airspace over El Paso, Texas this week has sparked an "intense blame game" within the Trump administration, with the White House reportedly furious at the Federal Aviation Administration for shutting down the airspace without alerting other key agencies. However, other officials are pointing fingers back at the Pentagon and Department of Homeland Security for using a counter-drone laser system at Fort Bliss without fully coordinating with the FAA, leading to the airspace restrictions.

Why it matters

The airspace closure incident highlights the ongoing challenges in coordinating between different federal agencies, especially when it comes to the deployment of new security technologies that could impact civilian air travel. It also comes against the backdrop of previous incidents, like the 2019 midair collision over the Potomac River, that have raised concerns about the lack of communication between the military and the FAA.

The details

The FAA abruptly restricted all civilian aircraft around Fort Bliss on Wednesday, citing concerns about a counter-drone laser system being used in the area. The order was reversed hours later, but the conflicting statements from officials have exposed deep divisions within the Trump administration. Some senior officials say the FAA made the decision without alerting the White House, Pentagon or Homeland Security, while others dispute that claim, saying the National Security Council and Homeland Security were informed in advance.

  • The airspace over El Paso was restricted on Wednesday, February 12, 2026.
  • The FAA order was reversed later the same day.

The players

Brian Bedford

The FAA Administrator who reportedly decided to close the airspace without alerting other agencies.

Jennifer Holliday

The NTSB chair who recently told a Senate committee that the lack of coordination between the military and the FAA had been "astounding".

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What’s next

The White House and federal agencies involved are expected to review procedures and communication protocols to prevent similar airspace closure incidents in the future.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in coordinating between different federal agencies, especially when it comes to the deployment of new security technologies that could impact civilian air travel. It underscores the need for better communication and collaboration to ensure the safety and efficiency of the national airspace system.