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Congressional Leaders Seek Clarity on FAA's Sudden Flight Restrictions Over El Paso

El Paso Matters•Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 10:30 PM•Robert Moore

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U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar and three New Mexico lawmakers are demanding a classified briefing from the Trump administration regarding recent FAA flight restrictions that caused significant disruption in El Paso and southern New Mexico. The FAA imposed unprecedented temporary flight bans affecting all types of aviation for ten days, which were lifted after just seven hours due to public outcry. The restrictions were enacted without prior notice or explanation, leading to widespread confusion and fear among residents and officials. The lawmakers are seeking accountability for the lack of communication and clarity surrounding the incident, which they describe as a disproportionate response to a drone incident.

Key Details: • Temporary flight restrictions were imposed for 10 days but lifted after 7 hours. • The affected area includes El Paso and southern New Mexico, covering over 2,000 square miles. • Lawmakers are requesting a classified briefing from Defense, Homeland Security, and Transportation officials.

el-paso congress drone faa flight-restrictions

People & Organizations

El PasoDepartment of Homeland SecurityDepartment of DefenseMartin HeinrichFederal Aviation AdministrationSanta TeresaVeronica EscobarGabe VasquezBen Ray LujanOrgan Mountains-Desert Peak National Monument

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