The Federal Aviation Administration has imposed an immediate temporary flight restriction over El Paso, Texas, halting all arrivals and departures at El Paso International Airport for a period of ten days. The unexpected move is expected to cause major disruptions in one of the largest cities in the United States.
According to the FAA, the restriction — which also covers parts of southern New Mexico — has been enacted for unspecified “special security reasons.” No further explanation has been publicly provided.
An official notice designates the affected region as National Defense Airspace. The FAA warned that any aircraft violating the restriction could face interception by authorities, detention, and questioning. Additional penalties may include suspension of pilot certifications, potential criminal charges, and in extreme cases, the government may use force if an aircraft is deemed an immediate security threat.
Airport officials stated that the order was issued with little advance notice and that they are seeking further clarification from federal authorities. El Paso International Airport confirmed that all commercial, cargo, and private aviation operations will remain suspended through February 20.
Audio from air traffic control recordings captured the urgency of the situation, with controllers informing flight crews of a “complete ground stop,” noting that even medical evacuation flights were not permitted.
El Paso is home to nearly 700,000 residents, making it the sixth-largest city in Texas and among the top 25 largest cities nationwide. The city plays a significant role in cross-border trade, situated next to Ciudad Juárez, Mexico.
The airport serves as a key transportation hub for west Texas, southern New Mexico, and northern Mexico. In the first eleven months of 2025, approximately 3.5 million passengers traveled through El Paso International Airport.
Local media leaders have described the shutdown as unprecedented in recent memory, comparing it to the nationwide flight grounding that occurred after the September 11 attacks. The suspension is expected to significantly impact business, travel, and regional commerce.
Federal officials have not yet released additional details, and further updates are anticipated as more information becomes available.