Major airlines including Alaska Airlines, Air Canada, and Delta Air Lines have canceled flights between Mexico and the United States after escalating civil unrest in western Mexico raised safety concerns, significantly disrupting travel plans for passengers from Portland International Airport (PDX) and other gateways.
The cancellations come amid violent clashes in the Mexican state of Jalisco, where a recent military operation reportedly resulted in the death of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.” The aftermath triggered road blockades, fires, and widespread security alerts that forced airlines to suspend operations to affected Mexican destinations, including Puerto Vallarta.
Carriers cited safety and access issues as key reasons for pulling flights. Alaska Airlines and Air Canada canceled several routes to western Mexico, while Delta issued travel advisories and flexible rebooking options for customers with affected itineraries.
The unrest has left some travelers with limited options to reroute or return home, as alternative flights have become scarce and costly. At PDX, travelers have faced unexpected disruptions and rising demand for updated schedules and rebooked tickets as airlines work through the cancellations.
Also Read: Beijing Cancels Flights and Trains as Windstorm Hits Northern China
U.S. and Canadian governments have urged citizens in the region to heed security guidance and shelter in place where appropriate. Airlines continue to monitor the situation closely, with decisions to resume flights expected to hinge on improvements in the security climate and access conditions around key Mexican airports.
