The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has closed the airspace surrounding the Texas border town of El Paso for 10 days. Local authorities, including the El Paso International Airport and the City of El Paso government, confirmed that flights would not take off or land from Tuesday at 11:30 PM (Wednesday 0630 GMT) until February 20 at 11:30 PM (February 21 at 0630 GMT). City Council member Chris Canales remarked that local authorities had not received any prior notice or explanation for the closure. According to a statement from the FAA, the closure was enacted for 'special security reasons'. Long-term airspace closures are uncommon, with the FAA noting a significant reduction in closure duration since 2018. The restricted area encompasses a 10-mile radius around El Paso, which includes parts of southern New Mexico, west of the town San Teresa. The notice was issued without advance warning to local governments or air traffic controllers, causing unease in the community due to El Paso's unique geographical position near Ciudad Juarez, Fort Bliss, and White Sands Missile Range. El Paso International Airport confirmed the grounding of all flights, including commercial, cargo, and general aviation, urging travelers to check with airlines for updates.
Temporary Flight Restrictions Imposed Over El Paso Amid Security Concerns
Temporary Flight Restrictions Imposed Over El Paso Amid Security Concerns
The FAA has announced a 10-day airspace closure over El Paso, Texas, citing special security reasons. Local authorities and airport officials report no prior notice was given about the restrictions.
The airspace around El Paso, Texas has been closed for ten days by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), starting from 11:30 PM on Tuesday. Local authorities were not given advance notice regarding this closure, termed 'special security reasons' by the FAA. The restrictions extend over a 10-mile radius, affecting local flights significantly.
