updates:
The unexpected airspace closure in El Paso stemmed from disagreements over drone-related tests, sources told @CBSNews. Pentagon had undertaken extensive planning on use of military tech near Fort Bliss. Two sources identified the technology as a high-energy laser.
Earlier this week, tech was used to shoot down what appeared to be foreign drones. The flying material turned out to be a party balloon, sources said. One balloon was shot down.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford last night decided to close the airspace — without alerting White House, Pentagon or Homeland Security officials.
Bedford told officials the airspace restrictions would be in place to ensure safety until issues with the War Department could be resolved.
Origonal report:
ALL flights to and from El Paso International Airport in Texas have been halted for “special security reasons,” the Federal Aviation Administration said early Wednesday
“No pilots may operate an aircraft in the areas covered by this NOTAM,” the FAA said, using the abbreviation for Notice to Airmen. It listed the reason as “temporary flight restrictions for Special Security Reasons.”
NOTAM said the airspace was classified as national defense airspace. Deadly force could be used on an aircraft if it is determined that it “poses and imminent security threat,” it said, adding that pilots “may be intercepted, detained and interviewed” by law enforcement and security personnel..
Developing ..
