In a curious move that briefly shut down commercial aviation in a major U.S. border city, the Federal Aviation Administration halted flights in and out of El Paso International Airport before reversing course just hours later.
The restriction applied to all commercial, cargo, and general aviation flights operating out of El Paso and nearby Santa Teresa, New Mexico. Pilots were warned that violators could face interception, enforcement action, and possible certificate revocation. The notice also included language referencing the potential use of force against aircraft deemed an imminent security threat.
The abrupt order immediately disrupted operations at an airport that typically handles dozens of daily departures on carriers including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Flights were delayed or canceled as airlines sought clarification and passengers scrambled for updates.
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