New Insights Emerge on El Paso's Airspace Closure Response in February

In February, the airspace over El Paso was abruptly closed, prompting a rapid response from city officials and airport staff. Texts and emails obtained through public records reveal that the first notification from the FAA arrived just before 9:30 p.m. on February 10, leading to the establishment of an emergency operations center by midnight. The closure, which lasted 10 days, was attributed to security concerns regarding unmanned aerial systems linked to cartel activities across the border. The airspace was reopened shortly before 7 a.m. the following day, as officials scrambled to manage the situation and communicate with the public.

Key Details: • Airspace closure notice received on February 10 at 9:30 p.m. • Emergency operations center set up by midnight on February 10. • Closure lasted for 10 days, lifted before 7 a.m. on February 11. • Security concerns linked to UAS operations from Mexico prompted the closure. • City officials were initially unaware of the situation until late into the night.