The airspace over El Paso, Texas, was temporarily closed this week due to the incursion of drones operated by a Mexican cartel, according to a government official. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) subsequently reopened the airspace after determining there was no ongoing threat to commercial travel.
Cartel Drone Activity
The incident involved drones violating U.S. Airspace, prompting a response from the Department of Defense to “deactivate” the drones. The FAA and the Department of Defense collaborated to assess the situation and ultimately lift the flight restrictions. Normal flight operations resumed after the cancellation of seven arrivals and seven departures.
The closure of the El Paso airport caused disruption for travelers, including a couple whose flight to Portland, Oregon, was canceled. Although, a planned ten-day closure was reduced to just a few hours.
Potential Future Developments
The apply of anti-drone laser technology by U.S. Customs and Border Protection near Fort Bliss without prior coordination with the FAA contributed to the airspace closure. A meeting between the Pentagon and the FAA to discuss the use of such technology was already scheduled for later this month. Further coordination and policy adjustments could be implemented to address similar incidents in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the airspace closure over El Paso?
Drones operated by a Mexican cartel violated U.S. Airspace, leading to the temporary closure of the airspace over El Paso, Texas.
How did authorities respond to the drone incursion?
The Department of Defense took measures to deactivate the drones, and the FAA worked with the Department of Defense to assess the situation and reopen the airspace.
Were flights significantly impacted by the closure?
Seven arrivals and seven departures were canceled during the closure, but normal flight operations were quickly restored.
As border security continues to evolve, what role will technology play in addressing the challenges posed by cartel activity?
