Updated: February 24, 2026
Thousands of travellers have faced major disruptions after a security crisis in Mexico’s western state of Jalisco forced airlines to suspend or cancel flights to Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR). While the airport itself has remained under federal protection, road blockades and security concerns around the region have made access unpredictable, leaving many Canadian and U.S. visitors stranded in hotels while waiting for new travel arrangements.
The disruption began after a large Mexican military operation in Jalisco triggered retaliatory violence in several parts of the state. Authorities reported road closures, burning vehicles and security incidents that affected transportation across the region. As conditions changed rapidly, airlines and governments urged travellers to avoid unnecessary movement and wait for official instructions before attempting to reach the airport.
Security Situation Disrupts Travel Across Jalisco
Mexican authorities have continued security operations across Jalisco following the outbreak of violence linked to organized crime. Although Puerto Vallarta’s main tourist areas have not been the direct focus of the unrest, transportation routes connecting hotels, highways and the airport have experienced interruptions.
The Government of Canada has advised citizens in affected areas to remain indoors where instructed, avoid non-essential travel, and closely monitor official updates. Travellers can check the latest guidance through the Government of Canada’s Mexico travel advisory.
Visitors are also being encouraged to stay in contact with their airline, hotel or vacation provider before making any plans to leave for the airport, as access conditions may change with little notice.
Major Airlines Suspend Puerto Vallarta Flights
The security situation quickly affected airline operations across western Mexico. Air Canada temporarily suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta, while United Airlines also halted services because of ongoing safety concerns.
WestJet confirmed it diverted seven flights already in the air and cancelled 24 flights involving Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo. Other North American carriers also adjusted schedules, with several cancelling flights until local authorities determined that conditions had improved.
Although Puerto Vallarta Airport remained operational, airlines cited uncertainty surrounding ground transportation and passenger access rather than problems inside the terminal itself.
Why Many Travellers Are Remaining in Hotels
For many visitors, the biggest challenge has not been the airport itself but reaching it safely. Hotels across Puerto Vallarta have continued accommodating guests whose return flights were cancelled, while airlines worked to arrange replacement services.
Package holiday providers have also been coordinating extended hotel stays where possible, helping travellers avoid unnecessary trips to the airport while waiting for confirmed departures.
Because aircraft, flight crews and airport slots all need to be repositioned after widespread cancellations, restoring normal schedules can take several days even after security conditions improve.
What Stranded Travellers Should Do
Travellers waiting to leave Puerto Vallarta are being advised to rely on official communication from their airline rather than social media reports. Flight schedules may change several times before departure.
Practical steps include:
- Confirm hotel extensions as early as possible if your flight has been cancelled.
- Keep passports, medications, chargers and travel documents packed and accessible.
- Check airline apps and official notifications regularly for rebooking updates.
- Only travel to the airport after receiving confirmation that your flight is operating.
If travelling through Mexico during periods of disruption, it is also helpful to review general airline passenger rights and travel preparation guidance before departure. Travellers planning future trips may also find it useful to review recent reports on major flight disruptions affecting international travel.
When Flights Are Expected to Resume
Airlines are continuing to monitor the situation alongside Mexican authorities. Normal operations will depend on improved security conditions and reliable access to Puerto Vallarta International Airport rather than airport infrastructure alone.
Even after flights restart, travellers should expect limited seat availability as airlines work through several days of cancelled services. Rebooking may occur in phases depending on aircraft availability and operational priorities.
For now, the safest approach remains following instructions from airlines and local authorities, staying informed through official updates, and avoiding unnecessary travel until transportation routes are fully restored.
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