Major Airline Cancellations
Many Major airlines have suspended or canceled flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, following the reported killing of Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes, the alleged leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG).
On Sunday, February 22, 2026, the Mexican military confirmed that they killed El Mencho, one of Mexico’s most wanted drug lord during a military operation in the state of Jalisco. Multiple international reports stated that the operation triggered retaliation from the CJNG in several Mexican states leading to road blockages, burning vehicles and gunfire between cartel members and the Mexican military.
Courtesy Of chris couderc ( Flickr CC0 )Which Airlines Are Canceling
In response to catastrophic news major airlines like United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and American Airlines announced that they were canceling all flights scheduled for Sunday to Puerto Vallarta (PVR). Other destinations that set for Mexico like Guadalajara and Mazatlán were also canceled. United Airlines said its flights to and from PVR and GDL (Guadalajara) were going to be canceled, while the Southwest Airline canceled all Puerto Vallarta flights just for the day. American Airlines has also suspended its last remaining services to the Mexican airports for safety measures.
Canadian airlines like Air Canada, being one of their largest airlines, confirmed it had temporarily stopped operations to and from Puerto Vallarta International Airport. They stated that with the “ongoing security situation” they will stop all flight services until Mexico’s condition improves.
When Will Flights Be Reinstated
The U.S. State Department and Canadian authorities have also issued major travel advisories urging U.S. citizens in parts of Mexico to take shelter in place and avoid any non essential travel due to the retaliation CJNG has emerged. These major airlines are ensuring people understand the risks they would take should the flights continue as scheduled.
At the time major airlines have not specified when normal flight schedules will continue with officials emphasizing that decisions will depend on the Mexican government to critically assess the situation. Major airlines stated that affected passengers would be offered rebooking options or refunds after the situation has been cleared. Travelers have been advised to keep monitoring the airlines for any updated flights. Local Authorities in Jalisco stated the regular patrols would remain intact until further clearance.
Sources:
FoxBusiness: US, Canadian airlines cancel Puerto Vallarta flights after reported killing of cartel leader ‘El Mencho’
SFGate: US citizens urged to shelter in place amid unrest in Puerto Vallarta
Featured Image Courtesy of Noah’s Photography Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of chris couderc Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
