Returning to El Paso after a 12-year hiatus, the two-day Amigo Airsho drew more than 60,000 attendees, celebrating aviation with aerial performances and a variety of aircraft displays. To protect the event and its participants, the airport implemented advanced counter-drone measures to safeguard restricted airspace.
“We were excited to see the Amigo Airsho return to the community,” said Tony Nevarez, recently appointed director of El Paso International Airport. “To enhance safety, we partnered with D-Fend Solutions to monitor airspace over the event grounds and ensure drones were kept away from aircraft and spectators. The pilot programme was a success, demonstrating our commitment to innovation and public safety.”
The initiative provided a unique opportunity to test counter-drone technology in the dynamic and challenging environment of an airshow. By detecting and mitigating unauthorised drones, the programme prevented disruptions and demonstrated the potential for future safety enhancements, its stakeholders said.
As drones have become more accessible and widely used, safety concerns have grown nationwide. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates that drones exceeding 55lb must be registered, and operators flying near controlled airspace must obtain prior authorisation. Events like the Amigo Airsho highlight the importance of proactive measures to manage drone activity and maintain safe skies.
