FORT BLISS, Texas — The U.S. Army deployed a high-energy laser system to neutralize an airborne object near Fort Bliss that was initially suspected to be a drug cartel-operated drone but was later identified as a commercial “party balloon,” according to officials.
The object, first detected in restricted airspace, resembled foreign drone technology, prompting immediate security protocols and coordination with federal authorities. Defense officials indicated the incident provided an opportunity to test emerging counter-drone capabilities under real-world conditions before the object was confirmed to be non-threatening.
In response to the potential security risk, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) affecting airspace in and around El Paso, Texas, including El Paso International Airport and neighboring Santa Teresa, New Mexico.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said federal agencies “acted swiftly to address a cartel drone incursion.”“The threat has been neutralized, and there is no danger to commercial travel in the region,” Duffy stated.The FAA restriction, which prohibited all aircraft operations — including commercial, cargo, and general aviation flights — took effect February 10 at 11:30 p.m. MST and remained in place through February 20 at 11:30 p.m. MST.
An official notice cautioned that the U.S. government may use deadly force against airborne aircraft deemed to pose an imminent security threat.El Paso International Airport confirmed the restriction in a public statement, noting that it was issued on short notice and appeared to be security-related.
Airport officials said they were coordinating with the FAA and notifying commercial carriers. Travelers were advised to contact their airlines directly for updated flight information.Federal authorities have previously warned that drug cartels are increasingly deploying drones for surveillance, transporting narcotics, and conducting attacks against rival groups and border patrol operations.
The U.S. government has intensified efforts to strengthen counter-drone defenses amid growing concerns about cross-border drone activity.The incident comes amid heightened regional security tensions.
In mid-January, the FAA advised airlines to exercise caution when flying over Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America due to potential military activity. That advisory was lifted last week following renewed diplomatic engagement regarding flights to Venezuela.
Recent U.S. military deployments in the southern Caribbean and reported operations targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro have further escalated regional tensions. Subsequent FAA airspace restrictions across portions of the Caribbean led to widespread flight cancellations by major airlines.
Authorities emphasized that there is currently no ongoing threat to commercial aviation in the El Paso region.
