by Natasha Lair
Last updated: 7:15 PM ET, Sun February 22, 2026
Update: Canadian airlines are resuming service to Puerto Vallarta today (Tuesday, February 24), following temporary suspensions prompted by security concerns in western Mexico. Full story here.
Ottawa has updated its travel advisory for Mexico after violent clashes erupted across parts of southwestern Mexico, triggering roadblocks, explosions and widespread transportation disruptions.
Global Affairs Canada warns that criminal groups have set up roadblocks with burning vehicles in several cities, particularly in:
- Jalisco State, including Puerto Vallarta
- Guerrero State, including Acapulco
- Michoacán State
Authorities report shootouts with security forces and explosions. Significant disruptions to travel and transportation are underway, including flight delays and cancellations.
RELATED: Expert Urges Canadians to Stay in Resorts as Puerto Vallarta Flights Resume
A shelter-in-place order is currently in effect in Puerto Vallarta. All taxi and rideshare services have been suspended until further notice.
Violence Triggered by Death of Cartel Leader
The unrest follows reports that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, was killed during a clash with Mexican military special forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm, stating that federal and state governments are working in full co-operation, CBC News reports.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Canada is “closely monitoring” the situation.
Canadians Told to Shelter in Place
Global Affairs Canada is advising Canadians currently in southwestern Mexico to:
- Keep a low profile
- Monitor local and international media to stay informed as the situation evolves
- Follow the advice of local authorities, including any orders to shelter in place
- Check with airlines before heading to the airport to confirm delays or changes in flight schedules
Officials emphasize that travel and transportation disruptions are ongoing.
FlightRadar24 map captured on Feb. 22, 2026, showing aircraft activity as travel disruptions unfold. (Photo Credit: Screenshot by TravelPulse Canada)
Flights Cancelled, Aircraft Turned Around
Several Puerto Vallarta-bound flights from Canada turned around mid-flight, according to online flight-tracking data.
Air Canada and WestJet (including Sunwing operations) have cancelled flights to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo. U.S. carriers, including United Airlines, Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines, have also announced cancellations.
In a statement, WestJet confirmed it has diverted seven flights en route to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) and cancelled 37 additional flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara (GDL) and Manzanillo (ZLO).
WestJet said its flexible change policy has been activated for guests travelling to PVR, GDL and ZLO over the next two days. For guests currently in destination, WestJet and Sunwing are arranging extended stays so travellers can comply with local official guidelines.
“As conditions evolve, additional cancellations may be required to ensure the safety of everyone in WestJet’s world,” the airline said, advising all guests with imminent travel plans to Mexico to check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Tourists Describe Panic
The Vancouver Sun reported that Canadian travellers are sheltered with hotel staff as flashbangs and gunfire erupt outside.
“People were crying. People were hiding under beds," Surrey, B.C., resident Jamie Boratynec told Vancouver Sun.
Vehicles, businesses, gas stations and retail outlets — including a local Costco — were reportedly set on fire amid what authorities describe as cartel retaliation.
Travellers in the region are encouraged to monitor official government advisories and airline communications closely.
TravelPulse Canada will continue tracking the situation and reporting on its impact as developments unfold.
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