Canadian Airlines Resume Service to Mexico Following Violent Unrest
Major Canadian airlines have announced the resumption of flights to Mexican destinations that were disrupted by violent incidents over the weekend. Air Canada, Air Transat, WestJet, and Porter Airlines all confirmed they would restart operations to Puerto Vallarta airport beginning Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Violence Triggers Temporary Flight Suspensions
The flight suspensions came in response to significant security incidents in Jalisco state, where Mexican authorities conducted an operation to arrest a high-priority security target in Zapopan on February 22. The operation sparked violent responses from drug cartel members, including the burning of buses and other unrest that disrupted airport operations and regional security.
Global Affairs Canada continues to advise travelers to exercise "a high degree of caution" while in Mexico, noting that while no new significant security incidents were reported in affected areas on February 23, further incidents remain possible in these locations and other regions across the country.
Airline-Specific Resumption Plans
Air Canada will resume full operations from Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver to Puerto Vallarta on Tuesday, with service to Guadalajara restarting on Wednesday, February 25. The airline confirmed these decisions followed consultation with both Canadian and Mexican authorities.
WestJet announced it would resume service to Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, and Manzanillo airports, implementing flexible change policies for affected passengers. The airline emphasized that flight status should be verified before travel, as some schedules may be modified.
Porter Airlines indicated it would restart flights to Puerto Vallarta on February 24, with service potentially operating on modified schedules. The airline offered complimentary changes for Puerto Vallarta flights through February 25 to accommodate affected travelers.
Registration and Safety Concerns
More than 26,000 Canadians in Mexico have registered with Canadian authorities, highlighting the significant number of travelers potentially affected by the security situation. The violence stemmed from cartel responses to Mexican authorities' operation against a high-priority security target, creating dangerous conditions in several regions.
The travel advisory from Global Affairs Canada remains in effect despite flight resumptions, emphasizing ongoing security concerns throughout Mexico. Travelers are advised to monitor local conditions closely, register with Canadian authorities while abroad, and maintain awareness of their surroundings at all times.
Canadian airlines have implemented flexible policies to accommodate passengers affected by the disruptions, with most offering complimentary changes or cancellations for flights scheduled during the peak of the violence. Passengers are encouraged to check directly with their airlines for specific rebooking options and updated flight information before traveling to airports.
