FAA Grounds El Paso Flights for Ten Days
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El Paso, Texas. The Federal Aviation Administration closed airspace over El Paso and southern New Mexico on Tuesday, grounding all commercial, cargo and general aviation flights through Feb. 20. The FAA cited “special security reasons” without elaboration and designated the area as restricted national defense airspace. El Paso International Airport confirmed the groundings, advised passengers to contact airlines, and said staff received short notice while awaiting further FAA guidance. The order covers Biggs Army Airfield nearby. Major carriers including Southwest, United, American and Delta operate at the airport and face schedule disruptions. Based on 7 articles reviewed and supporting research.
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Timeline
- 1. Feb. 10/11, 2026: FAA posts temporary flight restriction effective 11:30 p.m. local time.
- 2. Feb. 11, 2026: El Paso International Airport confirms all flights grounded and posts advisory.
- 3. Feb. 11–12, 2026: Media report that FAA cited 'special security reasons' and designated area as restricted/national defense airspace.
- 4. Feb. 12, 2026: Reports note inclusion of nearby military airfields (Biggs Army Airfield, Fort Bliss) and impact on carriers.
- 5. Through Feb. 20, 2026: Airlines and airport await further FAA guidance while operations remain suspended.
Sources
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