The FAA briefly closed airspace around El Paso International Airport (KELP) early Wednesday morning. [Credit: El Paso International Airport]
Key Takeaways:
The FAA abruptly imposed and then lifted a temporary flight restriction (TFR) over El Paso, Texas, grounding all flights, diverting medical transports, and causing significant disruption without prior notice to local officials or airlines.
Conflicting reasons for the TFR emerged, with reports suggesting U.S. military counter-drone testing, while the U.S. Transportation Secretary claimed a "cartel drone incursion," an explanation quickly disputed by local representatives and the Mexican President.
Local leaders, including the El Paso Mayor and Representative Veronica Escobar, heavily criticized the FAA for its complete lack of communication, deeming the "unprecedented" and sudden disruption unacceptable and potentially life-threatening.
Last updated Wednesday, February 11 at 12:15 p.m. EST.
The FAA on Wednesday morning abruptly lifted a temporary flight restriction (TFR) for airspace in El Paso, Texas, which officials said came as a surprise to local governments, airport leadership, and air traffic controllers (ATCs), including those at the Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center.
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Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.
