Mexico Resort Flights Suspended After Cartel Violence
Tourists in parts of Mexico have been urged to remain indoors after violence followed the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho". He died during a military operation in Jalisco state. In the hours that followed, armed groups blocked roads and set vehicles on fire, leading to security alerts and disruption in several areas.
Authorities in Puerto Vallarta issued a public notice advising people to stay inside. The UK Foreign Office said anyone in Mexico should remain alert and follow instructions from local officials, warning that access routes to airports could be blocked. The US Embassy advised citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, parts of Michoacán, Guerrero and Nuevo León to shelter in place until further notice.
“Wherever you are in Mexico, you should stay alert and follow local security advice."
Flights have been affected in Jalisco state. Puerto Vallarta Airport confirmed that all international services were cancelled on Sunday 22 February, with most domestic flights also suspended by airlines. The airport said it remains under the protection of federal security forces. Guadalajara International Airport reported operating with limited staff but stated that no flights had been cancelled and that there was no risk inside the terminal.
Travel impact and affected airports
- Puerto Vallarta: all international flights cancelled on 22 February
- Most domestic services also suspended by airlines
- Guadalajara: operating with limited staff, no cancellations reported
- Mexico City: operating normally
“We recommend that people with scheduled trips these days stay in contact with their airline to check the status of their flight."
Airlines including American Airlines, United and Delta have waived change fees for trips involving Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, while Air Canada cancelled services to and from Puerto Vallarta on 23 February. Puerto Vallarta is one of Mexico’s busiest beach resorts, and Guadalajara is due to host four FIFA World Cup matches later this year. Anyone due to travel should check flight status directly with their airline and follow official local advice as the situation develops.