El Paso's airspace was abruptly closed for hours due to a secret Pentagon test of a laser designed to counter Mexican cartel drones. This uncoordinated action caused significant friction with the FAA, disrupted flights, and drew sharp criticism from local and federal officials who received no advance warning.
The airspace over El Paso, Texas, experienced a sudden and surprising closure on Wednesday, initially announced for 10 days but lasting only a few hours. This disruption was reportedly due to a secret Pentagon test of a laser weapon intended to shoot down drones used by Mexican drug cartels. The unannounced nature of the test caused significant friction with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which sought to ensure commercial air safety. Despite a scheduled meeting later in the month to discuss such issues, the Pentagon proceeded with the test, prompting the FAA to shutter the city's airspace. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy confirmed the closure was to halt a Mexican cartel drone incursion, which was subsequently 'neutralized.' While cartel drone activity is common along the U.S.-Mexico border, the closure of an entire airport for security reasons is extremely rare. The incident led to the cancellation of seven arrivals and seven departures, stranded travelers, and rerouted medical evacuation flights, causing widespread confusion and inconvenience. This event highlighted a troubling lack of coordination between the FAA and the Pentagon, an issue previously noted in investigations of past aviation incidents. Democratic Sen. Tammy Duckworth criticized the 'lack of coordination' as 'endemic' within the administration. Rep. Veronica Escobar, whose district includes El Paso, expressed frustration over the lack of advance notice to her office and local officials, demanding an explanation from the FAA. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum also questioned the U.S. explanation, stating her government had no prior information about drone use on the border and would investigate. El Paso Mayor Renard Johnson called the incident a 'major and unnecessary disruption,' comparing its suddenness and lack of notice to the aftermath of 9/11.
