FAA Grounds Flights at El Paso After Pentagon Weapon Disruption, Southwest Cancels 18 Flights
FAA suspended all operations at El Paso International Airport for 90 minutes on February 10 after a Pentagon counterdrone system emitted electromagnetic pulses that interfered with navigational radars. Southwest Airlines canceled 18 inbound and outbound flights, anticipating network-wide delays as FAA examines the device’s electromagnetic footprint.
1. Flight Grounding Overview
On February 10, the FAA halted all commercial traffic at El Paso International Airport for approximately 90 minutes after navigational radars experienced interference from a nearby military counterdrone test. The ground stop applied to both arrivals and departures until signal integrity was restored.
2. Pentagon Counterdrone Test Details
The Pentagon deployed a secretive counterdrone system near Fort Bliss that emitted electromagnetic pulses to neutralize unmanned aerial threats. Military officials have not disclosed the system’s full technical specifications or test parameters.
3. Impact on Southwest Airlines Operations
Southwest Airlines canceled 18 flights serving El Paso, citing the FAA ground stop. The carrier warned that cancellations could trigger cascading delays across its regional network, prompting adjustments to crew schedules and passenger rebookings.
4. Regulatory and Future Protocols
The FAA is reviewing the electromagnetic emission guidelines for military tests conducted near civilian airports. Regulators may establish stricter coordination procedures to prevent similar disruptions in the future.