"A confusing series of events left airlines and passengers in El Paso wondering why the airspace over the city in the US state of Texas would be suddenly closed for 10 days "for special security reasons" and then reopened just hours later. Government and airline officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told reporters the FAA closed the airspace over concerns that a US military laser-based counter-drone system could pose risks to air traffic."
"But hours later, it lifted this temporary closure, saying there was no threat to commercial aviation. "The FAA and [Department of Defense] acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion," Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said on social media. "The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region. The restrictions have been lifted and normal flights are resuming.""
Airspace over El Paso was closed by the FAA for 10 days citing "special security reasons" and concerns that a U.S. military laser-based counter-drone system could endanger aircraft. The FAA and Department of Defense had planned to meet on February 20, but an Army operation proceeded without FAA approval, prompting the FAA to halt flights. The Trump administration reported cartel-operated drones crossed into U.S. airspace, triggering the temporary closure. Hours after announcing a 10-day restriction, the FAA lifted the closure, stating no threat to commercial aviation and resumption of normal flights. U.S. senators requested briefings and Mexico said it had no information confirming drone use.
Read at www.dw.com
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