Travelers in several parts of Mexico have been urged to shelter indoors following a surge in violence triggered by the killing of a major cartel leader. Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho” and head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), was killed during a military operation in Jalisco State. In the aftermath, cartel members reportedly set up roadblocks, torched vehicles and disrupted transport routes in multiple regions.
Authorities in Mexico and foreign governments have issued advisories affecting both residents and tourists. The United Kingdom’s Foreign Office warned travelers in Puerto Vallarta and other parts of Jalisco to stay indoors, avoid non-essential travel and follow local instructions.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico expanded its security alert to include Jalisco, Baja California, Quintana Roo and areas of Guanajuato, Guerrero, Michoacan, Oaxaca, Nuevo Leon and Tamaulipas, advising U.S. citizens to shelter in place until further notice.
Flight Disruptions and Airport Operations
The violence has significantly impacted air travel, particularly in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. While airports themselves have not been closed, airline operations have been disrupted due to roadblocks and security concerns. Puerto Vallarta International Airport confirmed that all international flights and most domestic services were canceled on Sunday, February 22, by decision of the airlines. The airport stated that internal operations remained secure and that National Guard and defense personnel were on site to maintain order.
Guadalajara International Airport reported limited staffing and heightened caution but emphasized that no direct incidents had occurred inside the terminal facilities. Still, numerous flights were diverted, delayed or canceled. Airlines including American Airlines, United, Delta and Air Canada issued travel waivers, allowing passengers to rebook without change fees. In Puerto Vallarta, taxis and ride-share services were suspended, and some businesses temporarily closed, complicating movement for tourists attempting to reach airports or hotels.
Importantly, not all of Mexico is experiencing disruptions. Mexico City International Airport is operating normally, and major Caribbean resort destinations such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen and Tulum remain largely functional, though included in broader security advisories out of caution.
What Travelers Should Do
Authorities are advising visitors to remain inside hotels or residences, minimize unnecessary movement and avoid areas with visible law enforcement activity. Travelers are encouraged to monitor local media, maintain contact with airlines regarding flight status and keep family members informed of their location.
Road travel between cities may be affected by blockades, and officials recommend traveling only during daylight hours if movement is unavoidable. Emergency services remain operational, and travelers should call 911 in Mexico in case of urgent need.
Security experts warn that while the removal of a cartel leader is operationally significant, such actions often lead to short-term instability as rival factions compete for control. For now, the situation remains fluid. Tourists currently in affected areas should prioritize safety, follow official guidance and remain alert to further updates as authorities continue security operations across multiple states.
