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FAA Lifts Flight Ban at El Paso After Security Concerns

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Aviation Administration lifted the temporary flight restriction at El Paso International Airport on February 11, 2026 after grounding all flights for security reasons.
The ban was in effect from February 10 to February 20.
It affected commercial and general aviation.
The restriction was prompted by concerns that Mexican cartel drones could breach U.S. airspace.
Airlines such as Southwest and American Airlines issued travel waivers for affected customers.

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Story summary

The Federal Aviation Administration lifted the temporary flight restriction at El Paso International Airport on February 11, 2026 after grounding all flights for security reasons.
The ban was in effect from February 10 to February 20.
It affected commercial and general aviation.
The restriction was prompted by concerns that Mexican cartel drones could breach U.S. airspace.
Airlines such as Southwest and American Airlines issued travel waivers for affected customers.