US Closes Airspace Over Texas Border Town for 10 Days for Special Security Reasons
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced a 10-day closure of airspace surrounding El Paso, Texas, beginning Wednesday. This significant move comes amidst rising concerns regarding security.
Key Details of the Airspace Closure
– Duration: From Tuesday at 11:30 PM (Wednesday 06:30 GMT) until February 20 at 11:30 PM (February 21 at 06:30 GMT).
– Scope: The restrictions cover a 10-mile radius around El Paso, impacting areas of southern New Mexico, including regions near San Teresa.
– Flights Grounded: All flights—commercial, cargo, and general aviation—have been suspended by El Paso International Airport.
Lack of Communication and Local Impact
City Council member Chris Canales, representing a southwestern area of El Paso, expressed concerns about the abrupt nature of the closure, noting that local authorities were not informed in advance.
– Comment on the Situation: “The notice was published without any advance notice to local governments or air traffic controllers,” Canales stated. “There are some folks who are panicking a bit because of how highly unusual this is.”
– Geographical Considerations: El Paso’s unique location borders Mexico’s Ciudad Juarez to the south and west, with the US Army base Fort Bliss and White Sands Missile Range situated to the north. Fort Bliss focuses on military training, while White Sands serves as the largest overland testing range for missiles and advanced weaponry.
Recommendations for Travelers
In a statement posted on Facebook, the City of El Paso advised travelers impacted by the airspace closure to reach out to their airlines for the latest flight status updates.
The FAA has noted that such long-term airspace closures are uncommon. Since 2018, the average duration for airspace restrictions has significantly decreased from over four hours to just over two hours per launch.
Conclusion
The recent closure of airspace over the Texas border town of El Paso for special security reasons has raised eyebrows and prompted concern among local residents and travelers alike. With the unique geographical positioning of El Paso, the implications of this decision are sure to be felt throughout the coming days. Stay informed and in touch with relevant authorities to navigate this unexpected disruption.