FAA Suspends Flights Near Fort Hancock, Texas After Suspected Laser Anti-Drone Incident

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) temporarily barred flights in airspace near Fort Hancock, Texas, citing “special security reasons,” following reports that a military laser-based anti-drone system may have accidentally shot down a U.S. government drone. The flight restrictions, which affected the area along the U.S.-Mexico border, have raised fresh concerns about airspace safety and the deployment of advanced counter-drone technology.

According to congressional aides who spoke with Reuters, the incident is believed to involve a Pentagon-operated laser defense system designed to disable or destroy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). While neither the FAA nor the Department of Defense immediately confirmed the details, the sudden airspace closure points to heightened security measures in response to the event.

The restricted zone near Fort Hancock underscores growing attention on military drone defense systems and their potential impact on civilian and government aviation. Laser-based anti-drone technology has increasingly been used to counter unauthorized drones, particularly in sensitive border regions. However, this reported mishap highlights the risks associated with advanced directed-energy weapons operating in shared airspace.

Earlier this month, the FAA halted air traffic at El Paso International Airport for 10 days before unexpectedly reversing the decision within hours. Media reports at the time linked the temporary airport closure to safety concerns surrounding the same laser-based anti-drone system. Although operations resumed quickly, the incident fueled questions about coordination between military operations and civil aviation authorities.

The latest Fort Hancock flight ban adds to ongoing scrutiny of drone security measures along the southern border. As drone usage continues to expand across commercial, government, and military sectors, aviation regulators face increasing pressure to balance national security priorities with airspace safety. Further clarification from the FAA and the Pentagon is expected as investigations continue into the reported drone incident.