Airspace Closed Over El Paso Due to Counter Drone Technology

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The U.S. government's ability to handle drone threats on American soil has come under scrutiny after the airspace over El Paso, Texas was temporarily closed this week. According to sources familiar with the situation, a laser-based counter drone system was used to disable an unidentified drone, triggering the airspace closure.

Why it matters

The incident in El Paso highlights the growing challenge of dealing with rogue drones that could pose risks to public safety and national security. While counter drone technologies exist, their use and effectiveness remain controversial, raising questions about the government's preparedness and the appropriate balance between security and civil liberties.

The details

The laser-based system used in El Paso is designed to disable drones by disrupting their control signals or navigation systems. However, the specifics of how it was deployed and the nature of the drone threat remain unclear. The temporary airspace closure caused flight delays and disruptions in the region.

• The airspace over El Paso, Texas was closed on February 13, 2026.

What’s next

Authorities are likely to review the incident and assess the effectiveness and appropriate use of counter drone technologies to ensure public safety while respecting civil liberties.