Flights from Phoenix to Mexico Cancelled Amid Security Operations

Unrest over the killing of a cartel leader prompts shelter-in-place order and flight cancellations.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Phoenix airport reported cancelling scheduled flights on Sunday to the tourist cities of Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Mazatlán in Mexico, as unrest over the killing of a cartel leader caused a shelter-in-place order. Air Canada has also suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta due to the ongoing security situation.

Why it matters

The cancellations highlight the impact of cartel-related violence on travel and tourism in parts of Mexico. Arizonans with plans to visit affected areas are being advised to shelter in place and seek assistance if needed.

The details

The cancellations come after the U.S. Consulate in Tijuana issued a security alert for U.S. citizens in Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Cancun and other regions to shelter in place due to "ongoing security operations." The Mexican army had reportedly killed the leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, resulting in cartel members burning cars in multiple Mexican states.

  • On Sunday, February 23, 2026, flights from Phoenix to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Mazatlán were cancelled.

The players

Sky Harbor International Airport

The main airport serving the Phoenix metropolitan area.

Air Canada

A major Canadian airline that suspended flights to Puerto Vallarta due to the security situation.

U.S. Consulate in Tijuana

Issued a security alert for U.S. citizens in parts of Mexico to shelter in place.

Jalisco New Generation Cartel

A powerful Mexican drug trafficking organization whose leader was reportedly killed by the Mexican army, sparking unrest.

Greg Stanton

A U.S. Representative from Phoenix who encouraged Arizonans needing assistance in Mexico to contact his office.

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What they’re saying

“We must hope that any Arizonans in Puerto Vallarta will be safe from the unrest.”

— Greg Stanton, U.S. Representative (12news.com)

What’s next

The U.S. Consulate and local authorities are monitoring the situation in Mexico, and travelers are advised to follow any updated guidance or security alerts.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the ongoing challenges of cartel-related violence in parts of Mexico and its potential impact on travel and tourism. Arizonans with plans to visit affected areas should closely follow official advisories and be prepared to adjust their plans if necessary.