Airlines Resume Puerto Vallarta Flights as Jalisco Security Stabilizes

Mexican federal and state authorities have announced that the security situation in the western state of Jalisco is stabilized, permitting the resumption of flights to key tourist destinations. The normalization of airport operations follows a period of intense cartel-linked violence that erupted after the death of kingpin Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as "El Mencho." The unrest led to significant travel disruptions, stranding hundreds of American tourists and prompting a specific security alert from the U.S. government.

The violence had a direct impact on air travel, causing international carriers to temporarily suspend or cancel flights to major airports in the region. This included Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta and Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) in Guadalajara. The Embassy of Mexico in the United States confirmed that airline operations were returning to normal as authorities worked to reopen transit corridors and restore public services.

Airport Operations and Traveler Impact

Following the outbreak of violence, which included vehicle fires and roadblocks across Guadalajara, airport operations were severely curtailed. The U.S. Embassy & Consulates in Mexico issued a Security Alert on February 22, 2026, which included a "shelter in place" recommendation for U.S. citizens in Jalisco. The U.S. State Department reported receiving hundreds of calls on its crisis hotline from Americans seeking assistance due to the disruptions.

In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Mexican embassy said, "The security situation has now stabilized following targeted operations in Jalisco. Federal and state authorities are proceeding to reopen transit corridors and restore public services smoothly." The embassy added that while some local security measures remain, authorities are focused on restoring airport operations to full capacity. The coordinated effort involved deploying thousands of military personnel to secure key infrastructure, including airports and tourist zones.

U.S. Travel Advisories and Security Context

The incident highlights the ongoing security concerns for travelers in the region. According to the U.S. Department of State, Mexico is currently under a nationwide Level 2 "Exercise Increased Caution" travel advisory due to crime and kidnapping risks. However, specific states often carry higher risk levels, with some designated as Level 3 "Reconsider Travel" or Level 4 "Do Not Travel."

The recent violence was a direct response to a Mexican special forces operation, supported by U.S. intelligence, that resulted in the death of Oseguera Cervantes. The U.S. State Department had previously offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction, identifying him as one of the country's most wanted fugitives. The cartel's reaction demonstrated its capacity to disrupt civil infrastructure and create widespread instability, directly impacting the country's vital tourism sector.

Economic and Industry Implications

The disruption poses a significant risk to Mexico's economy, where tourism represents approximately 10% of economic activity. Prolonged instability could have lasting effects on traveler confidence. Carlos De la Torre, a managing director at AM Best, noted that the event "may in the longer term dissuade tourists from visiting oceanside resort areas on Mexico's west coast."

The government's rapid response to stabilize the situation and restore transit appears aimed at mitigating these economic risks. Officials stated they were coordinating with international partners "to ensure safety and stability at all transit hubs and tourist destinations." The successful resumption of flight schedules by international and Canadian carriers is a critical first step in restoring normalcy, though the underlying security advisories from foreign governments remain in place.

Why This Matters

This incident serves as a stark reminder of how regional security challenges can directly impact global aviation operations and traveler safety. For airlines, it underscores the need for robust contingency plans and real-time risk assessment in volatile regions. For the travel industry and the Mexican economy, it highlights the critical link between state security and the sustainability of tourism, forcing a continuous balance between promoting travel and ensuring the safety of visitors.

Access up-to-date commercial aviation news and airline industry developments via flying.flights. Track policy changes, airspace rules, and global aviation governance in the Regulatory category at flying.flights/regulatory.