Congress let more law enforcement agencies to down rogue drones. Then Customs and Border Protection fired a laser, shutting down an airport

Fortune

by Josh Funk, The Associated Press

February 14, 2026

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Congress recently granted more law enforcement agencies the authority to take down rogue drones, provided they receive proper training. However, this new policy led to a significant incident in Texas when U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) used a laser to neutralize a drone without coordinating with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), resulting in the closure of El Paso International Airport. The shutdown occurred after CBP's laser use raised safety concerns near commercial planes, causing widespread disruption to flights and traveler schedules. While the situation was resolved within hours, it highlighted potential vulnerabilities in interagency communication and preparedness for future drone threats. The incident underscores the growing challenge posed by drones, particularly along the U.S.-Mexico border where cartels frequently use them to transport drugs and conduct surveillance. Experts warn that the increasing number of drones—estimated at over 1.7 million registered in the U.S.—poses significant risks to aviation safety and public events. For instance, a malicious actor could easily purchase a drone for a few hundred dollars and target crowded locations like airports or major gatherings, such as the upcoming World Cup matches. This issue is particularly relevant for businesses, as the threat of drones interfering with airport operations or damaging infrastructure could lead to costly disruptions and reputational harm. The government has allocated $250 million in grants to help states hosting World Cup events prepare for drone threats, but industry experts stress the need for clearer guidelines and better coordination between agencies like CBP, FAA, and Homeland Security. Additionally, the incident raises questions about the preparedness of the U.S. to handle a significant drone threat, both domestically and internationally. As

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/14/2026