Cartel violence triggers major disruptions at Mexican airports

A surge of cartel-related violence in the state of Jalisco has caused significant disruption at Puerto Vallarta Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (PVR) and Guadalajara International Airport (GDL), forcing airlines to cancel and divert flights amid escalating security concerns.

The unrest followed a major federal security operation that reportedly resulted in the death of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). As often seen after high-profile cartel actions, retaliatory road blockades, vehicle fires, and coordinated disruptions quickly spread across the region.

Puerto Vallarta was hardest hit. Access roads to the airport were blocked by burning vehicles, effectively halting operations. International and domestic flights were cancelled or diverted as airlines suspended service and issued travel waivers. Authorities declared a Code Red alert, and federal forces secured the airport perimeter.

At Guadalajara, airport officials confirmed that operations inside the terminal continued, but citywide roadblocks severely disrupted access. Several U.S. and Canadian routes were cancelled as a precaution, with airlines holding aircraft out of the region and limiting crew movements.

Airports in Mexico City, including Mexico City International Airport, remain unaffected.

Airlines say crew and passenger safety is driving operational decisions as authorities work to restore control in western Mexico.