Air Canada, United Halt Flights to Mexico's Puerto Vallarta amid Violence

Air Canada and United Airlines suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta after cartel violence erupted following the killing of Jalisco cartel leader "El Mencho," stranding thousands.

Air Canada and United Airlines are among several major North American carriers that have temporarily suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, following an eruption of cartel-related violence that prompted shelter-in-place orders from the U.S. and Canadian governments. The chaos began after Mexican soldiers killed Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho," the 59-year-old leader of the violent Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), who had a $15 million U.S. bounty on his head.

The killing triggered immediate reprisals, with criminal groups setting up roadblocks using burning vehicles in several cities across Jalisco state, including the popular tourist destination of Puerto Vallarta. Reports of shootouts and explosions near the airport created panic, with videos on social media showing travelers scrambling for cover inside terminal buildings. One stranded passenger described hearing gunfire erupt outside, saying "people were scurrying, flying on the ground, trying to find cover." 

Air Canada confirmed it temporarily suspended operations, canceling three flights to and three flights from Puerto Vallarta, affecting nearly 500 customers in each direction. United Airlines canceled all services to both Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara for Sunday, February 22. Other carriers including Southwest, American, Delta, Alaska, WestJet, and Porter Airlines followed suit, collectively canceling dozens of flights. The Puerto Vallarta International Airport reported that all international and most domestic flights were canceled.

The U.S. State Department issued an urgent warning for American citizens in parts of Mexico, including Jalisco, to "shelter in place until further notice" due to ongoing security operations and criminal activity. Canada's government similarly advised citizens in Jalisco to keep a low profile and follow local authorities' advice, with the Quebec government specifically urging Quebecers in the area to register with the Canadian embassy. Airlines have activated flexible rebooking policies and are working to repatriate stranded passengers once the situation normalizes.