The closure of airspace over El Paso, Texas, highlights a growing concern regarding drone incursions by Mexican drug cartels. This issue has been exacerbated by the Federal Aviation Administration's longstanding hesitance to take military countermeasures against rogue drones, largely due to fears of jeopardizing civilian aircraft. Despite numerous incidents, including drone activities over sensitive military installations, meaningful action has been impeded by bureaucratic paralysis.

For several years, unidentified drones have intruded upon U.S. airspace without adequate response. As reported, drones measuring up to 20 feet in size have been spotted near critical military sites such as Langley Air Force Base and Norfolk Navy Station. This pattern of escalation has raised alarms within the national security community, illustrating the urgent need for a reassessment of current regulations governing airspace security and military engagement.

The implications of these drone incursions reach far beyond airspace violations; they reflect a significant challenge posed by organized crime and its capability to leverage technology against state security. As pressure mounts for a decisive response, U.S. authorities may be forced to reconsider existing aviation regulations to better protect against the potential of cartel operations in the airspace, indicating a shift in policy could be imminent to address this escalating threat.