Travel Disruptions Loom for Mexico Spring Break Trips

Airlines and cruise lines adjust schedules amid security alerts in western Mexico regions.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Travelers heading to Mexico for spring break may face disruptions to their plans, as airlines and cruise lines adjust schedules in response to security alerts in certain regions of the country. While most Mexican airports and destinations remain unaffected, flights to and from Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta have been disrupted, and some cruise lines are skipping Puerto Vallarta as a port of call.

Why it matters

The recent security issues in western Mexico could impact spring break travel plans for many families and college students in the Austin area, as peak travel weeks are still ahead. Travelers need to be aware of the latest developments and have backup plans in case their flights or cruise itineraries are affected.

The details

Airlines like American, Delta, and Southwest have issued travel alerts and waivers for flights to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, allowing customers to rebook without change fees. Cruise lines have also responded by skipping Puerto Vallarta as a port of call. The State Department has issued a security alert, advising Americans in certain areas to shelter in place due to ongoing security operations, road blockages, and related criminal activity.

  • The State Department security alert was issued on February 22, 2026.
  • American Airlines' travel waiver covers flights between February 22-26, 2026, with rebooking required by February 26.
  • Delta's travel waiver covers flights between February 22-26, 2026, with rebooking required by March 7.
  • Southwest's travel waiver covers flights between February 22-25, 2026.

The players

American Airlines

A major U.S. airline that has issued a travel alert and waiver for flights to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

Delta Air Lines

A major U.S. airline that has issued a travel alert and waiver for flights to Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.

Southwest Airlines

A major U.S. airline that has issued a travel alert and waiver for flights to Puerto Vallarta.

U.S. State Department

The U.S. government agency that has issued a security alert for certain regions of Mexico, advising Americans to shelter in place.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The State Department has advised travelers to check for updates on road closures and flight disruptions, and to consider alternative destinations if their original plans involve Guadalajara or Puerto Vallarta.

The takeaway

Travelers heading to Mexico for spring break should closely monitor the latest security and travel advisories, and be prepared to adjust their plans if necessary. While most Mexican destinations remain unaffected, the situation in certain western regions could lead to flight and cruise disruptions in the coming weeks.