Canada revised its travel warning for Mexico after violence in several southwestern regions led to road closures, blasts and major disruptions to air travel. Toronto Star
Canada revised its travel warning for Mexico after violence in several southwestern regions led to road closures, blasts and major disruptions to air travel. Toronto Star
Ottawa has revised its travel advisory for Mexico after violent incidents spread across parts of the country’s southwest, causing serious travel disruptions and public safety concerns.
Federal officials now warn Canadians about dangerous conditions in several regions, including Jalisco, Guerrero and Michoacán states. Popular tourist destinations such as Puerto Vallarta and Acapulco have experienced unrest.
Roadblocks and Explosions Reported
Authorities report that criminal groups set up roadblocks using burning vehicles in multiple cities. Security forces have engaged in shootouts, and explosions have occurred in affected areas.
Officials confirm significant disruptions to transportation. Flights face delays and cancellations, and local travel services remain limited in certain areas.
Puerto Vallarta currently operates under a shelter-in-place order. Taxi and rideshare services have stopped operating until further notice.
Violence Linked to Cartel Leader’s Death
The unrest follows reports that Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, widely known as “El Mencho,” died during a confrontation with Mexican military special forces in Tapalpa, Jalisco. He led the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum urged citizens to remain calm and said federal and state governments are working together to manage the situation.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Canada is “closely monitoring” developments.
Advice for Canadians in the Region
Global Affairs Canada advises Canadians currently in southwestern Mexico to remain cautious.
Officials recommend that travellers:
- Keep a low profile
- Follow instructions from local authorities
- Comply with shelter-in-place orders
- Monitor local and international news
- Confirm flight details with airlines before heading to the airport
Officials stress that travel disruptions continue and may change quickly.
Flights Cancelled and Diverted
Several flights from Canada heading to Puerto Vallarta turned around mid-air, according to flight tracking data.
Air Canada and WestJet, including Sunwing operations, cancelled multiple flights to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo. U.S. airlines also suspended some services.
WestJet confirmed it diverted seven flights en route to Puerto Vallarta and cancelled 37 additional flights to and from Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara and Manzanillo.
The airline activated a flexible change policy for travellers scheduled to fly to those destinations over the next two days. For Canadians already in affected areas, WestJet and Sunwing arranged extended hotel stays to help travellers follow local safety instructions.
In a statement, WestJet said, “As conditions evolve, additional cancellations may be required to ensure the safety of everyone in WestJet’s world.” The airline urged passengers to check flight status before going to the airport.
Tourists Describe Fearful Moments
Canadian travellers in the region described tense scenes as violence unfolded nearby.
The Vancouver Sun reported that some tourists sheltered inside hotels with staff as flashbangs and gunfire sounded outside.
“People were crying. People were hiding under beds," Surrey, B.C., resident Jamie Boratynec told Vancouver Sun.
Authorities report that vehicles, businesses, gas stations and retail outlets faced damage during what officials describe as cartel retaliation.
Travellers in the area continue to monitor official advisories and airline updates as the situation develops.
