What Happened
This week, several airlines, including WestJet, Air Canada, Flair Airlines, Air Transat, and Porter Airlines, cancelled or diverted flights to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, due to escalating violence following the reported death of a major drug cartel leader. The cancellations have compounded an already challenging travel season as uncertainty looms ahead of the March break.
Why It Matters
The situation has left over 26,000 Canadians registered with Global Affairs Canada in Mexico, prompting many to reconsider their travel plans. Richard Vanderlubbe, president of tripcentral.ca, described the current state as being “in the eye of the storm,” indicating a cautious approach among travelers. Airlines are now resuming services after receiving positive updates from local authorities regarding security conditions.
What’s Next
As of Tuesday, February 24, airlines are gradually resuming flights to Puerto Vallarta and other regions in Mexico. WestJet announced it would restart operations following a thorough review, while Air Transat confirmed similar plans. Both airlines are offering flexible booking options for travelers affected by the disruptions. Passengers are advised to stay informed and check with their airlines for the latest updates.
