Major U.S. airlines canceled Sunday flights to parts of western Mexico following the killing of Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, Mexican military forces killed Oseguera Cervantes during an operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco. The operation triggered roadblocks, vehicle burnings, and security alerts across multiple states.
United, Southwest, American Cancel Sunday Flights
United Airlines confirmed it canceled all Sunday flights to Puerto Vallarta (PVR) and Guadalajara (GDL).
Southwest Airlines canceled flights arriving to and departing from Puerto Vallarta.
American Airlines canceled its remaining Sunday flights to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Mazatlán.
As of Sunday evening, airlines had not announced cancellations extending beyond that day.
Travel Alerts And Waivers Issued
United Airlines said it placed travel waivers in effect for impacted passengers and encouraged customers to check flight status updates online or through its mobile app.
Southwest said it would provide assistance to customers affected by the cancellations.
American Airlines issued a travel alert for flights to, through, and from Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara. The airline said affected passengers may rebook without change fees.
Air Canada also suspended operations at Puerto Vallarta International Airport earlier Sunday, citing “an ongoing security situation.”
U.S. Issues Shelter-In-Place Advisory
The U.S. Mission to Mexico issued a security alert advising American citizens in Jalisco, Tamaulipas, parts of Michoacán, Guerrero, and Nuevo León to “shelter in place until further notice.”
The alert followed reports of cartel members setting vehicles on fire and blocking highways after the military operation.
Officials have not announced when normal air travel operations will resume.
