Thursday, February 12, 2026-In a startling episode this week, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) fired an anti‑drone laser system — recently provided by the Pentagon — near El Paso, Texas, triggering an abrupt closure of the airspace over El Paso International Airport by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The FAA initially ordered a 10‑day grounding of flights “for special security reasons,” but the restriction was lifted within hours after officials determined there was no immediate threat to commercial aviation. The decision to deploy the laser was not coordinated with aviation authorities, sparking confusion among federal agencies and the public.
According to multiple sources, the Pentagon authorized CBP to use a high‑energy counter‑drone laser near Fort Bliss to address what officials described as incursions by drones believed to be operated by Mexican drug cartels.
The FAA’s sudden emergency order was a direct response to the unplanned use of the technology, raising major concerns over the safety of civilian aircraft in the vicinity. The unusual sequence of events — including the quick reversal of the shutdown — highlights a lack of clear communication between the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, and the FAA.
Local leaders and lawmakers have sharply criticized the handling of the incident, questioning why such a dramatic airspace restriction was issued without prior notice or interagency coordination. Representative Veronica Escobar and other officials emphasized the need for clearer protocols, especially given the potential risks to passenger flights and emergency services. As investigations continue, the episode underscores persistent tensions between national security operations and aviation safety priorities.
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