El Paso Airspace Briefly Closed Amid FAA-Pentagon Dispute Over Drone Tests

In Brief

A disagreement between the FAA and Pentagon over drone-related tests led to a brief El Paso airspace closure.

Key Facts

• The airspace over El Paso, Texas, was closed for several hours before being reopened the same day.
• Sources report the closure resulted from a dispute between the FAA and Pentagon regarding drone-related military tests.
• Pentagon officials had planned to use military technology near Fort Bliss to practice downing drones.
• The closure was initially attributed to 'special security reasons,' but questions arose about claims of cartel drone infiltration.
• The incident highlights ongoing tensions and coordination issues between the FAA and the Department of Defense.

What Happened

The FAA abruptly closed the airspace over El Paso, Texas, citing special security reasons, but reopened it hours later. Multiple sources indicate the closure stemmed from a dispute with the Pentagon over planned drone-related military tests near Fort Bliss.

Why It Matters

This event underscores ongoing coordination challenges between agencies responsible for flight safety and national security. The episode has raised questions about transparency and communication in handling airspace disruptions, especially when national security is cited. Some sources mention claims of cartel drone infiltration as a reason for the closure, but this has been questioned and not confirmed by all outlets.