Puerto Vallarta Airport Shut Down Amid Escalating Cartel Violence
Frightening images of burning vehicles and widespread unrest in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, have flooded social media platforms, prompting a severe security response. Local news sources confirm that all flights to and from the city's major airport have been paused indefinitely following a federal police operation targeting cartel activities.
Security Lockdown and Travel Disruptions
The governor of Jalisco, Pablo Lemus Navarro, declared a statewide "code red" alert, the highest possible security level aimed at protecting civilians. In a post on X, he explained that a federal operation in Tapalpa, a mountain town near Guadalajara, triggered violent retaliation from cartel groups, leading to the current crisis.
All inter-city transportation, including buses, taxis, and rideshare services, has been suspended until further notice. Residents and visitors are strongly advised to stay indoors as authorities work to restore order.
Impact on Canadian Travelers
Flights from Canada have been significantly affected, with the airport temporarily closed. Major airlines such as WestJet, Air Canada, and Flair, which operate daily direct flights between British Columbia and Puerto Vallarta, have canceled or diverted services. Some flights have been rerouted to other Mexican cities, while others have returned to their points of origin.
The Canadian government updated its travel advisory for Mexico on Sunday, highlighting that a shelter-in-place order is active in Puerto Vallarta. The advisory states, "criminal groups have set up roadblocks with burning vehicles in several cities in Jalisco State, including in Puerto Vallarta. There have been shootouts with security forces and explosions."
Safety Recommendations and Tourist Impact
Authorities urge Canadians in the area to keep a low profile, monitor local and international media for updates, and follow instructions from local officials. Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for tourists and snowbirds, with over 750,000 Canadians visiting annually, making this disruption particularly impactful for travel plans.
As the situation evolves rapidly, travelers are encouraged to stay informed and prioritize safety amidst the ongoing cartel conflict.
