Airspace Closure Over El Paso Stemmed From Pentagon Laser Test
– The unexpected closure of airspace over El Paso, Texas, on Wednesday was a direct result of the Pentagon’s plans to test a laser system designed to intercept drones used by Mexican drug cartels, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.
The abrupt shutdown of flights sparked confusion and raised questions about aviation safety. Sources indicate the closure was prompted by friction between the Pentagon and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA prioritized ensuring the safety of commercial air travel and sought coordination with the Department of Defense before the test could proceed.
Despite a scheduled meeting later this month to discuss the issue, the Pentagon reportedly moved forward with plans to test the laser technology, leading the FAA to close the airspace as a precautionary measure. It remains unclear whether the laser was ultimately deployed during the period of the airspace closure.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated earlier that the airspace closure was a response to neutralize an incursion by Mexican cartel drones, acknowledging the growing threat posed by these unmanned aerial vehicles along the U.S.-Mexico border. Drone incursions are reportedly not uncommon in the region.
Officials at the White House, FAA, and Department of Transportation did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the dispute. The Pentagon offered a statement mirroring Duffy’s comments, but provided no additional details.
The incident highlights ongoing challenges in coordination between the FAA and the Department of Defense. A previous investigation into a mid-air collision over the Potomac River last year revealed a lack of data sharing and risk assessment between the two agencies regarding close calls near Reagan National Airport. The National Transportation Safety Board found that the FAA and the Army had not adequately shared safety data, contributing to the incident that resulted in 67 fatalities.
The FAA has stated that there is currently no threat to commercial aviation. However, the situation underscores the increasing sophistication of cartel operations and their utilization of drone technology for illicit activities, including drug smuggling and potential surveillance. According to reports, cartels are increasingly employing drones as tools to smuggle drugs and engage in conflicts with rival organizations.
The use of a laser system to counter these drones represents a significant escalation in border security measures. The Pentagon reportedly allowed U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to utilize the anti-drone laser before the FAA initiated the airspace closure. This move further complicated the situation and contributed to the FAA’s decision to ground flights.
The airspace closure also occurred alongside separate events involving a party balloon shoot-down, adding another layer of complexity to the situation. Sources suggest that the timing of these events further strained relations between the FAA and the Department of Defense.
The incident raises questions about the balance between national security concerns and the need to maintain a safe and efficient air transportation system. Further details are expected to emerge as investigations into the airspace closure and the underlying dispute between the Pentagon and the FAA continue.
