Travel Disruptions in Mexico Following Drug Cartel Leader's Death

Violence Erupts After Cartel Leader's Demise

Travel plans have been significantly affected in various tourist hotspots across Mexico due to a military operation that resulted in the death of a prominent drug cartel leader. The Mexican Defence Ministry confirmed that Nemesio "El Mencho" Oseguera Cervantes, head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed on Sunday, February 22. This operation was reportedly conducted with intelligence assistance from the United States government, as stated by the previous administration.

In the wake of his death, violent incidents erupted in western Mexico. Reports indicate that organized crime factions set buses ablaze, obstructed roads, and engaged in confrontations with military forces in Jalisco. The US Embassy in Mexico has issued a warning for American citizens in several areas, advising them to remain indoors until February 23. This advisory affects regions including Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, as well as Ciudad Guzman, Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, Reynosa, Tijuana, and parts of Michoacán.

While major tourist destinations like Mexico City and Oaxaca are not included in the advisory, flights to and from airports in Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, faced significant disruptions on February 22, leaving many international travelers stranded. Although some flights resumed on Monday afternoon, cancellations and delays persisted. Airport officials in Puerto Vallarta assured that the airport's internal operations remained unaffected by the violence reported in the state. They stated, "The situations reported in various parts of the State did not impact the airport's internal operations or the safety within its facilities." The airport is currently under the protection of the National Guard and the Ministry of National Defense.

However, the US Embassy noted that roadblocks had disrupted airline operations. "While no airports have been closed, roadblocks have impacted airline operations, with most domestic and international flights cancelled in both Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta," the embassy reported. Ride-sharing services in Puerto Vallarta have also been suspended, and several businesses have halted operations.

As of Monday afternoon, flight tracking data indicated 74 cancellations at Puerto Vallarta International Airport and 65 at Guadalajara International Airport. Major airlines from the United States, Canada, and Mexico have announced cancellations and issued travel waivers. Air Canada stated it would cancel all flights to and from Puerto Vallarta on February 23, citing ongoing security concerns. Aeromexico also cancelled and delayed flights to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara on Monday morning, offering a travel waiver for customers booked through February 23 to change their flights without charge.

American Airlines cancelled flights between Puerto Vallarta and major US cities, including Chicago, Los Angeles, and Dallas-Fort Worth, through February 23. A spokesperson mentioned, "We will continue to monitor the situation and make any additional changes to our operation as necessary to ensure the safety and security of our customers and team members." Delta Air Lines cancelled four flights on February 23 between Puerto Vallarta and various US cities, allowing passengers booked through February 26 to change flights without charge.

Southwest Airlines suspended all flights to Puerto Vallarta on February 23, emphasizing the importance of customer safety. Customers scheduled to travel through February 25 may delay their flights for up to 14 days without penalty. United Airlines confirmed that operations to Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara have resumed but noted that a waiver remains in effect for travelers.

The US Embassy has established a hotline for Americans in Mexico, encouraging citizens to avoid areas with law enforcement activity, stay aware of their surroundings, and seek shelter when necessary. Travelers are advised to monitor local media for updates, avoid crowds, and keep family and friends informed of their whereabouts. US citizens are also encouraged to enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety alerts and emergency contact facilitation.