Air Canada and United Temporarily Suspend Flights to Puerto Vallarta Amid Security Situation
On Sunday, 22 Feb, Air Canada and United Airlines temporarily suspended operations to and from puerto vallarta, Mexico, citing an ongoing security situation that prompted cancellations and heightened concern for travelers and local safety.
Puerto Vallarta: immediate airline responses
Both carriers announced the temporary halt of their services that morning. United communicated that flights bound for Puerto Vallarta were canceled in a written statement sent by email that said, in Spanish, "Se cancelan los vuelos de United Airlines con destino a Puerto Vallarta. " Air Canada likewise suspended its operations to and from the destination, characterizing the move as a temporary pause tied to the security circumstances.
What the airlines cited about the security situation
The airlines framed the suspensions as responses to an ongoing security situation affecting the region. The pause applies to flights arriving at and departing from puerto vallarta, and passengers experienced cancellations and service interruptions as airlines adjusted operations on Sunday, 22 Feb.
Security developments in Jalisco linked to the halt
Earlier coverage noted that the narcotraficante mexicano Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho", died in a military operation in Tapalpa, in the state of Jalisco. Authorities in that area reported vehicle fires and road blockades in connection with the operation. Those ground incidents were cited as part of the broader security situation that prompted airlines to limit movement to and from the region.
Impact on travelers and logistics
Travelers bound for puerto vallarta faced canceled itineraries and potential disruption to onward plans. The temporary suspension affected arrivals and departures alike; passengers were left to seek rebooking or refunds through their carriers' standard channels. Ground disruptions in Jalisco, including vehicle fires and blocked roads, also complicated movement within the state and may have affected airport access and local emergency response efforts.
What remains unclear and next steps
Certain operational details remain unclear in the provided context, including the expected duration of the suspensions and specific guidance for travelers on rebookings or accommodations. Airlines described the pauses as temporary and tied them directly to the ongoing security situation. Local authorities' reports about the death of Nemesio Oseguera, alias "El Mencho", and the associated vehicle fires and blockades were cited as linked developments, but precise timelines for the restoration of normal flight operations were not specified in the available information.
Looking ahead
Airline operations to Puerto Vallarta will likely remain contingent on how the security situation evolves and on assessments by carriers and local authorities. Travelers with plans involving puerto vallarta should expect continued disruption until airlines announce resumptions or provide more detailed guidance. Details may evolve as officials and carriers update their positions.
