El Paso Airport in Texas has been ordered to cease all operations for a period of 10 days, as per instructions from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA cited 'special security reasons' for the closure, which has garnered attention from various media outlets including local newspapers and the New York Times. The restrictions on flights to and from the airport will remain in effect until February 20, raising concerns about the potential implications for travelers and the local economy.

The order highlights that the airspace surrounding El Paso Airport has been classified as 'national defense airspace.' In compliance with this designation, pilots must adhere to specific procedures or face possible interception by law enforcement or security personnel. The FAA's notice underscored the seriousness of the situation by warning that the United States government may resort to deadly force against aircraft deemed to present an imminent security threat, commanding attention and concern among aviation stakeholders and the public alike.

The closure comes on the heels of significant airport traffic, with El Paso Airport serving over four million passengers in 2024. This move will likely strain the local travel arrangements and spark discussions regarding the security protocols in place across U.S. airports. As the situation evolves, authorities will need to balance national security interests with the implications for civil aviation and local economies dependent on air travel.