The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has implemented extensive flight restrictions in the vicinity of Fort Hancock, Texas, following an incident where a Pentagon-operated laser-based anti-drone system allegedly shot down a US government drone that was monitoring the border with Mexico. This incident has raised concerns among lawmakers about the safety and oversight of military operations in civilian airspace.

In response to the incident, which took place near the border, the FAA issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) imposing a ban on most aircraft in the affected area, effective from 6:30 PM local time until June 24. The restrictions are described as being for “special security reasons,” allowing for emergency flights like air ambulances and search-and-rescue operations to occur on a case-by-case basis.

The lack of communication and coordination between military and civilian aviation authorities has been met with criticism from several senior Democratic lawmakers, who expressed their frustration over what they perceive as incompetence in managing aerial safety. No official comments have been made by the Pentagon or the FAA regarding the incident, but the response highlights increasing concerns surrounding military technology's integration into civil airspace and public safety.