The airspace over El Paso, Texas was unexpectedly closed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) late Tuesday due to unspecified security concerns involving drones operated by Mexican drug cartels. The closure, announced as a precautionary measure, came as a shock to both commercial and military flights operating in the area, with all flights required to land safely despite the emergency situation. The FAA imposed a temporary flight restriction for ten days, yet lifted the ban only a few hours later, although details regarding the specific nature of the threat were not disclosed.

According to sources cited by CNN, the operation of these drones raised significant security issues, prompting the Defense Department to take action. An official source indicated that the drones affiliated with Mexican cartels had intruded into U.S. airspace, which led to heightened alert levels among local military installations. Notably, the operation near the Biggs Army Airfield may have influenced the FAA's quick decision to close the airspace, signaling collaboration between federal agencies in managing perceived threats to national security.

The incident underscores ongoing concerns about the operations of drug cartels in proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border, particularly as advancements in drone technology allow for new forms of surveillance and smuggling activities. It highlights the challenges faced by authorities in safeguarding U.S. airspace from potential incursions, reflecting a broader national security issue that continues to evolve as these non-state actors leverage technology in their illicit operations.