New Delhi: There was chaos at El Paso International Airport located in the US state of Texas when the airspace was completely closed due to security reasons. This sudden decision was taken due to the infiltration of drones of the Mexican drug cartel. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) initially saw it as a major threat and banned flights for 10 days. However, after prompt action by the Pentagon, the situation was brought under control and air routes were reopened.
Airspace closed for a short time
Let us tell you that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had initially issued a strict order to stop flights over El Paso and neighboring Santa Teresa for 10 days from February 11 to 20. This area was declared ‘National Defense Airspace’, making it impossible for commercial, cargo and general aviation aircraft to fly. The order, which came into effect from 11:30 pm local time on Tuesday, put security agencies on high alert as drone intrusion was considered a major threat.
Pentagon disabled drones in the air
When Mexican cartel drones crossed the international border and entered the US border, the Defense Department became active. A senior Trump administration official confirmed that the Pentagon disabled these foreign drones in the air using state-of-the-art technology. It was only after this successful military operation that Transport Secretary Sean Duffy assured the public that there was no longer any threat to commercial travel and that air restrictions were being lifted with immediate effect.
Bad effect visible on common passengers
The worst impact of this sudden decision was on common passengers. Hundreds of people got stuck at the airport due to the news of the airport being closed at midnight. Many international and domestic flights had to be canceled or diverted, causing anger and uncertainty among passengers. The airport administration has advised passengers to contact their airlines for refund or re-scheduling information. The short notice given due to security reasons also created problems for the management.
Restrictions lifted within a few hours
Security experts believe that the proposal to close a busy airspace for 10 days is a very extraordinary step. Usually such action is taken only during a major security threat, war-like situation or covert military operation. Although the ban was lifted within a few hours, this incident has raised serious questions on the security of border airspaces. The Home Security Department has not yet shared the detailed information behind the intrusion.
Security forces deployed to avoid any attack
US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy clarified on social media that the Department of War (DOW) and FAA together have averted this crisis. He said that the security forces are now even more prepared to deal with any suspicious drone or aircraft coming from across the border. At present, normal operations have started at El Paso International Airport, but experts are considering this as a big warning. Serious consideration is being given to making new policies to prevent such infiltration in future.
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