Story perspectives

FAA Closes El Paso Airport Over Military Drone Safety Concerns

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closed El Paso International Airport over safety concerns about a military anti-drone system, disrupting flights.
Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) criticized the FAA for poor coordination with the Defense Department, saying this caused the closure.
The FAA initially planned a 10-day shutdown but lifted it after eight hours.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized the lack of communication between the FAA and Defense Department.

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Story summary

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closed El Paso International Airport over safety concerns about a military anti-drone system, disrupting flights.
Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) criticized the FAA for poor coordination with the Defense Department, saying this caused the closure.
The FAA initially planned a 10-day shutdown but lifted it after eight hours.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Chair Jennifer Homendy criticized the lack of communication between the FAA and Defense Department.