The airspace around El Paso Airport (ELP) was abruptly closed for 10 days before being unexpectedly reopened within hours, raising questions about the true reason behind the disruption. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of War (DOW) initially attributed the closure to a perceived threat from Mexican cartel drones, claiming the situation was “neutralized” and commercial travel was no longer at risk.
Conflicting Explanations Emerge
While the official narrative points to cartel drone incursion, an alternative explanation suggests the airspace closure was triggered by unauthorized military drone operations targeting drug cartels near El Paso. According to industry sources briefed by the FAA, the military conducted drone activity in the region without coordinating with civilian air traffic control. This created unpredictability, forcing the FAA to shut down the airspace to prevent potential collisions.
Why This Matters
The rapid closure and reopening of El Paso Airport highlight a critical gap in coordination between military and civilian aviation authorities. The incident raises concerns about the safety of commercial flights in border regions where military operations intersect with civilian airspace. The FAA’s decision to close the airport for an extended period suggests a serious perceived threat, even if the exact nature of that threat remains disputed.
Political and Operational Implications
The timing of the closure and its swift resolution has drawn scrutiny. Some speculate that the FAA may have been unhappy with the military’s lack of transparency regarding drone activity, leading to the drastic measure of shutting down the airport. The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding aviation safety, particularly in the wake of past mid-air collisions.
The Bottom Line
The El Paso airspace closure was lifted after just hours despite a planned 10-day restriction. Whether it was cartel drones or unsanctioned military operations that triggered the disruption remains unclear, but the incident underscores the urgent need for better communication and coordination between military and civilian aviation authorities to ensure the safety of commercial air travel.
