US officials lift 10-day closure of El Paso airspace after balloon mistaken for drone | El Paso

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) abruptly closed airspace above El Paso, Texas for 10 days due to "special security reasons," citing a potential drone incursion by Mexican cartels. However, the closure was lifted after hours of confusion and public outcry, with officials offering conflicting explanations ranging from cartel drone activity to anti-drone technology testing. The FAA has stated that there is no threat to commercial aviation and flights will resume as normal. The incident sparked criticism from local officials and politicians, who expressed concerns over the lack of communication and coordination leading to the unexpected closure.