Story perspectives

El Paso Airport Incident Reveals Flaws in Counter-Drone Tech

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

The El Paso airport incident shows shortcomings in U.S. counter-drone technology after Customs and Border Protection tried to use a laser, triggering the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shutdown.
Officials said the action was needed due to drone incursions from Mexican cartels, but the laser reportedly struck a party balloon.
Experts criticize the technology's reliability, noting failures in adverse conditions.
Stacie Pettyjohn urged safe testing of counter-drone systems in early development.

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Story summary

The El Paso airport incident shows shortcomings in U.S. counter-drone technology after Customs and Border Protection tried to use a laser, triggering the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) shutdown.
Officials said the action was needed due to drone incursions from Mexican cartels, but the laser reportedly struck a party balloon.
Experts criticize the technology's reliability, noting failures in adverse conditions.
Stacie Pettyjohn urged safe testing of counter-drone systems in early development.