Unexpected Airspace Pause Over El Paso

The FAA abruptly halted all flights to and from El Paso International Airport at 11:30 p. m. local time, citing “special security reasons. ” The ban covered a 10‑mile radius around the city and reached into Santa Teresa, New Mexico, but left aircraft above 18, 000 feet unaffected. Officials did not explain the threat that triggered the move. One notice warned that federal authorities might use deadly force against any aircraft deemed an imminent danger, yet no specific incident was named.Travelers were caught off guard. A passenger headed to New York learned of the closure only after speaking with an airline representative who had also not received any notice. Local politicians, including a congressman from San Antonio, admitted they had no further details. The shutdown was lifted after fewer than eight hours, but the reasons behind the decision remain unclear. Some officials linked the pause to alleged Mexican cartel drones breaching U. S. airspace, a claim that has faced skepticism. The episode highlights how quickly aviation security can shift, leaving passengers, airlines and authorities scrambling for answers.