FAA Halts El Paso Flights After Border Protection’s Pentagon Laser Use
FAA suspended El Paso airspace for four hours on Feb. 11 after Border Protection deployed a Pentagon-supplied laser device near the runway. Delta canceled three connecting flights and rerouted passengers through Dallas/Fort Worth, waiving change fees for affected travelers.
1. Incident Details
On Feb. 11 Border Protection activated a Pentagon-supplied laser near El Paso International Airport, prompting FAA to impose an immediate ban on all flights over the airport for roughly four hours. The suspension forced airlines to cancel or reroute approximately 25 departing and arriving services, causing systemwide scheduling adjustments.
2. Delta Flight Disruptions
Delta eliminated three scheduled flights to and from El Paso during the ban, diverting passengers through Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. The carrier offered fee waivers and rebookings to minimize traveler inconvenience amid the unplanned operational interruption.
3. FAA and CBP Response
FAA lifted the ban after Border Protection confirmed deactivation of the laser system and initiated a joint inquiry with Pentagon oversight. FAA issued guidance reminding operators that any future use of high-powered laser equipment near controlled airspace must be pre-coordinated to prevent safety hazards.