Flights Resume Between Vancouver and Mexican Airports After Cartel Violence
Vancouver International Airport (YVR) announced Tuesday morning that flights between Vancouver and two major Mexican airports will resume operations following a security crisis that left tens of thousands of Canadian tourists stranded in Mexico.
Security Situation Resolved
In an official statement released Tuesday, YVR confirmed that flights to and from Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) would recommence "following the security situation within the region." The announcement comes after several days of travel disruptions caused by drug cartel-related violence in the Mexican state of Jalisco.
Violence Stranded Canadian Tourists
The travel chaos began over the weekend when Mexican authorities killed Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, who is also known as El Mencho. This triggered a violent response from criminal groups, including:
- Shootouts with security forces in Puerto Vallarta
- Explosions in several cities
- Roadblocks created with burning vehicles
As a result, the Canadian government issued a shelter-in-place order for Puerto Vallarta, and most Canadian airlines cancelled all flights to and from the popular tourist destination.
Airlines Coordinate Recovery Efforts
Air Canada has announced it will resume flights to Puerto Vallarta with a modified schedule and has added extra seats to help stranded Canadians return home more quickly. The airline advises all passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
YVR officials stated that airlines are coordinating rebooking efforts and will provide the latest information about flight status. Travellers are strongly advised to contact their airline directly before coming to the airport.
Passenger Rights and Compensation
According to travel and passenger rights advocates, passengers whose flights were cancelled are entitled to refunds. Additionally, those who experienced extended hotel stays due to the disruptions may be eligible for financial compensation.
Updated Travel Advisory
Global Affairs Canada has updated its travel advisory for Mexico, noting that while the shelter-in-place order has been lifted, travelers should still exercise "a high degree of caution" when visiting the country. The advisory reflects ongoing security concerns despite the resumption of flights.
The situation highlights the vulnerability of international travel to regional security issues and the challenges faced by tourists caught in unexpected crises abroad. As flights gradually return to normal, Canadian authorities continue to monitor the security situation in Mexico closely.
