Cartel Violence Forces Mass Flight Cancellations in Mexico: Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara Airports Closed Temporarily – Here is How to Navigate the Crisis

Mexico’s tourism industry has been thrown into chaos as cartel violence escalates across key regions. The violence has forced Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara airports to temporarily close or suspend many flights, leaving travelers stranded or uncertain about their travel plans. This unexpected crisis comes after the cartel violence intensified in areas like Jalisco and Michoacán, following the death of a notorious cartel leader. Flight cancellations have become widespread, affecting both international and domestic flights, and disrupting tourism to some most popular destinations of Mexico.

Travelers trying to reach or depart from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara have faced significant difficulties. Many flights were canceled, with airlines such as Air Canada, United, and Delta halting operations in and out of the affected airports. Puerto Vallarta International Airport, a key gateway for international travelers, experienced major disruptions, with the airport temporarily closing its gates. While Guadalajara International Airport remained open, flight delays and cancellations were still widespread due to heightened security measures and road blockages around the airport.

In this crisis, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed. Airlines and local authorities are advising all visitors to remain in their accommodations and avoid unnecessary travel in and around these areas. The situation is evolving rapidly, and travelers must follow official guidance to stay safe and avoid further disruptions.

This temporary airport closure has created a massive ripple effect in the tourism industry, and it’s vital to understand how to navigate the crisis. In the next sections, we’ll outline practical steps to take if you’re caught in this travel turmoil, ensuring you can make informed decisions during these challenging times.

Shelter-in-place advisory for tourists and residents

As the violence spread, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued a security alert for U.S. citizens in Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and surrounding regions. The embassy urged American travelers to shelter in place and minimize movement, citing the ongoing cartel violence and heightened security operations. Similarly, Canada’s official travel advisory strongly recommended that Canadians in the affected areas stay indoors and follow the guidance of local authorities.

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) also issued a similar warning, urging British nationals to exercise extreme caution in Mexico. They emphasized that road access to airports may be blocked, and advised against non-essential travel, especially in Jalisco and Michoacán. Tourists were encouraged to stay in touch with their embassies and check for any updates on security conditions in real-time. In addition, airlines such as United, American Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada quickly implemented travel waivers, allowing affected passengers to change or cancel flights without penalty. These measures were necessary due to the escalating situation at key airports like Puerto Vallarta International Airport and Guadalajara International Airport, both of which saw significant disruptions in the wake of the cartel violence.

Flight cancellations and disruptions: Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara hit hard

Puerto Vallarta International Airport was severely impacted by the violence, with all international flights to and from the airport canceled on February 22, 2026. Major airlines, including Air Canada and United Airlines, suspended operations due to the growing safety concerns surrounding road blockages, armed clashes, and the heightened risk of cartel activity in the surrounding areas.

In addition to the cancellations, domestic flights to Puerto Vallarta were also affected, with many travelers facing delays or cancellations as airlines scrambled to adjust their schedules. The airport itself, which was under the protection of Mexico’s National Guard, remained open but with limited functionality due to safety protocols and restricted access.

The situation at Guadalajara International Airport was similar but slightly less severe. While the airport continued operations, limited personnel and increased security measures resulted in delays and some flight cancellations. However, the airport itself reported that no violent incidents had occurred inside the terminal, and operations continued, albeit with heightened security. Nevertheless, road access to the airport was significantly affected by the violence, and travelers were advised to be cautious when traveling to and from the airport.

Official travel advisories from neighboring countries

The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory for Mexico now categorizes Jalisco as a “Reconsider Travel” zone, urging U.S. citizens to stay alert and take extra precautions. The advisory highlights the risk of violent crime in cartel-controlled areas, with armed confrontations, roadblocks, and fires reported in several regions. Similarly, the Canadian government issued a travel advisory advising against non-essential travel to several states, including Jalisco and Michoacán, due to the ongoing violence. Canada also recommended that Canadian citizens currently in Mexico shelter in place and follow local authorities’ instructions.

The UK government and other European nations followed suit, advising citizens to exercise extreme caution and to monitor the situation closely. Many governments have pointed to the increased cartel violence as a direct result of the military operation against El Mencho, with criminal organizations retaliating with violence against security forces and civilians alike. The Australian government also issued an updated advisory, urging citizens to reconsider travel to affected areas and follow all official security instructions.

Violence erupts after security operation

The violence began after a coordinated security operation by the Mexican military and National Guard, which successfully killed El Mencho, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). This cartel is considered one of Mexico’s most dangerous and influential criminal organizations. In retaliation, cartel members launched violent reprisals, including road blockages, vehicle fires, and shootouts in several regions of Jalisco, Michoacán, and Guerrero.

Local authorities in affected regions issued Code Red alerts for public safety, warning civilians and travelers to stay inside their homes or hotels. Several major highways and intercity roads were blocked by cartel members, and the violence quickly spread to other regions, further complicating the security situation.

In cities like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, where tourist numbers are significant, local law enforcement and military personnel have been deployed to restore order, but travelers are still urged to stay in secure locations and avoid unnecessary movement.

Airport and transport safety: What travelers need to know

Although Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara airports remained open for the most part, travelers should remain cautious when traveling to and from the airport. Security forces and military personnel have been stationed at key transport hubs to ensure safety, but road blockages and flooding from violence may continue to disrupt movement in the coming days. Travelers are urged to follow the advice of local authorities, use official transportation options, and remain in communication with their airlines regarding any updates on flight statuses.

For those arriving in Mexico City, the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is reported to be operating normally, with no direct impact from the cartel violence. However, travelers are advised to remain updated and monitor any travel alerts issued by local authorities.

Safety precautions for travelers

In light of the ongoing crisis, travelers are urged to adhere to the following safety measures:

1. Shelter in place — Remain in your hotel or residence, especially in affected regions.
2. Minimize movement — Avoid non-essential travel, especially after dark or in areas where violence has been reported.
3. Stay updated — Follow local media and government travel advisories to monitor evolving security conditions.
4. Avoid road travel — Be cautious when using roads, especially intercity routes, as blockades and violence may occur unexpectedly.
5. Contact your embassy — Ensure that you are registered with your embassy and can receive any necessary updates.

Conclusion: Monitoring Mexico’s travel situation

The current travel situation in Mexico remains fluid, with travel disruptions and security concerns affecting popular tourist cities like Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. While some airports continue to operate, travelers are advised to be flexible with their plans and closely follow official travel advisories. Flight cancellations and disruptions are a direct result of the escalating violence, and until the situation stabilizes, tourists should be prepared for unexpected changes in their travel schedules.

Mexico remains a popular destination for international tourists, but travelers must stay vigilant in areas where cartel violence is prevalent. By staying informed and adhering to safety protocols, travelers can navigate these uncertain times with caution and care.

The post Cartel Violence Forces Mass Flight Cancellations in Mexico: Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara Airports Closed Temporarily – Here is How to Navigate the Crisis appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Mexican security forces killed cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as El Mencho, in a military operation in the state of Jalisco, triggering retaliatory violence that prompted multiple governments to issue urgent travel advisories […]

Seattle’s Nonstop Flights to Puerto Vallarta Canceled as Violent Cartel Unrest Shuts Mexico Airport, Disrupting U.S. and Canada Airlines

A sudden outbreak of cartel-related violence in Mexico’s Jalisco state has caused major disruptions to international air travel, with all nonstop flights from Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Puerto Vallarta’s Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) canceled. The violence erupted after a military operation led to the death of notorious cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as “El Mencho,” sparking retaliatory unrest across the region. The chaos led to the temporary closure of PVR, impacting flights operated by U.S. and Canadian airlines such as Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and Air Canada. These cancellations, combined with heightened security alerts, have stranded passengers and left travelers scrambling to adjust their plans amid a rapidly evolving situation.

Flight Cancellations and Airline Responses

The violent events in Jalisco prompted swift action from airlines, who immediately suspended flights to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. Notably, Alaska Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and Air Canada all halted their services due to the airport’s temporary closure. The immediate flight suspensions left hundreds of travelers stranded, as numerous international and domestic flights were disrupted. United Airlines, which also services Guadalajara, followed suit, grounding flights to both cities in response to the escalating security concerns. Passengers had no choice but to turn back as airline representatives communicated their commitment to ensuring the safety of travelers and crew members. Southwest Airlines confirmed that eight of its flights were canceled, including both inbound and outbound routes to Puerto Vallarta.

The Cartel Violence and Its Consequences

The violent clashes were triggered by a military operation targeting the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), a powerful criminal group responsible for drug trafficking and organized violence. The operation resulted in the death of El Mencho, a high-profile cartel leader. His demise prompted an immediate retaliation from his associates, resulting in road blockades, fires, and widespread unrest throughout Jalisco, including near key transportation hubs like Puerto Vallarta’s airport. Social media videos showed passengers fleeing the terminal as thick smoke rose from nearby fires, with some abandoning their luggage in the panic.

The unrest also extended to neighboring regions, disrupting daily life and causing road closures, further exacerbating the chaos. Several key Mexican airports, including Cancún International Airport (CUN) and Mexico City’s Lic Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), also faced operational setbacks. At least 62 flights were delayed and 29 canceled as a direct result of the violence, severely affecting both domestic and international flight schedules.

Heightened Security Measures and International Alerts

Following the violence, Mexico’s security forces have significantly increased their presence around major infrastructure hubs, including airports. The U.S. Department of State and Canada’s embassy in Mexico issued immediate travel advisories, urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel and shelter in place if in areas of heightened unrest. The embassy recommendations emphasized avoiding public spaces near ongoing law enforcement operations. The U.S. also issued a warning, advising American citizens to monitor the situation closely and heed guidance from airlines regarding flight cancellations and delays.

The disruption at Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara also prompted advisory notices for other international travelers, including those from India, with their embassy urging caution and limited travel near known trouble spots. Flight tracking data confirmed multiple canceled and diverted flights to both cities, showing the far-reaching impact of the cartel violence on cross-border air travel.

Impact on the Tourism Sector

The unrest has severely impacted the tourism sector in Puerto Vallarta, a major destination for travelers from the United States and Canada. The cancellations have not only affected vacationers but also posed logistical challenges for airline crews and operators. With safety measures in place and airport security heightened, airlines have been reluctant to operate under such conditions. Many carriers have been forced to delay or redirect flights to alternate destinations in the wake of the violence.

Puerto Vallarta and other cities in Mexico’s western region have long been popular among international tourists, particularly from North America. However, such incidents of violence, though not uncommon in certain parts of Mexico, raise concerns over the stability of popular tourist routes and may lead travelers to reconsider future trips to the region. Industry analysts have pointed out that routes like Seattle–Puerto Vallarta, heavily focused on leisure tourism, are particularly vulnerable to sudden geopolitical unrest.

Operational Disruptions in Other Mexican Airports

The fallout from the cartel violence has not been limited to Puerto Vallarta. Several other airports, including Cancún and Mexico City, also experienced significant disruptions. The violence led to the cancellation and delay of dozens of flights, stranding travelers across key locations. The chaos disrupted airline schedules, and many flights were either turned back mid-air or rerouted to nearby airports. Domestic and international flights alike faced hours of delays, contributing to a ripple effect across the airline industry.

Among the airlines affected were Aeromexico, Viva Aerobus, and Interjet, all of which experienced operational issues due to the chaos. The disruption had serious consequences for both local residents and international tourists, who faced extended waiting times, missed connections, and cancelled itineraries. While some airlines worked to reposition aircraft and accommodate affected travelers, others suspended service entirely, as they awaited clearance from local authorities to resume normal operations.

Navigating the Uncertainty

As the situation in Jalisco remains volatile, travelers flying to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara are urged to stay updated on the latest developments. Airlines are advising passengers to check the status of their flights directly through their respective carriers, as schedules may continue to change in response to the security situation.

This disruption serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities in the aviation sector when regional instability and violent unrest impact air travel. While airlines work to ensure the safety of their passengers and staff, travelers planning to visit Mexico should remain vigilant and flexible as they navigate the current crisis. The situation continues to evolve, and further delays and cancellations are possible in the coming days as authorities attempt to stabilize the region.

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