UPDATE: Multiple airlines have canceled flights to and from popular Mexican destinations, including Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara, due to rising cartel violence following the reported death of drug lord Nemesio Oseguera, known as El Mencho. This urgent situation began after Mexican military forces targeted El Mencho in a military operation earlier today, February 22, 2026.
Passengers at Guadalajara International Airport experienced chaos as violence erupted in the region. United Airlines announced that all flights to and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara are canceled, emphasizing the safety of their customers and employees. “We’ll continue to evaluate the conditions as the situation develops,” a United spokesperson stated.
Southwest Airlines reported similar cancellations, scrapping four scheduled flights into Puerto Vallarta. “Safety is our utmost priority,” the airline confirmed in a statement. American Airlines has also suspended operations to GDL, PVR, and Mazatlán (MZT) for the entire day, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
This violence comes on the heels of a military operation targeting El Mencho, the notorious leader of the Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación, identified by US authorities as a major supplier of fentanyl. He carried a staggering $15 million bounty on his head. Following the operation, clashes erupted, with smoke visible from the airport as travelers fled in fear.
U.S. officials have reacted swiftly. The US Embassy in Mexico issued shelter-in-place advisories for several states, warning Americans to avoid travel and remain vigilant. “As a result of the situation, we are monitoring the developments closely,” officials stated.
Videos circulating on social media depict panicked travelers sprinting through airports as violence spills over into the streets. Reports indicate that roadblocks and burning vehicles are part of the cartel’s retaliatory response, further destabilizing the region.
Christopher Landau, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, described the killing of El Mencho as a significant breakthrough for both Mexico and the United States. “This is a great development for Mexico, the U.S., Latin America, and the world,” he posted on X.
The ramifications of this violence are immediate and widespread, affecting thousands of travelers who now face uncertainty. Passengers remain stranded at airports due to flight suspensions and lack of transport in Tlajomulco, Jalisco State.
As the situation develops, airlines are issuing travel waivers, allowing affected passengers to rebook flights without additional fees. Authorities are urging travelers to stay informed and prepared for further changes in the coming hours.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation unfolds.
