What Happened
Air Canada and other airlines have canceled flights to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, due to escalating violence following the elimination of a cartel leader by the Mexican army. Reports indicate that thousands of Canadians are currently stranded as a result of these cancellations and ongoing civil unrest.
Why It Matters
The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid non-essential travel to several regions in Mexico, including Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized the importance of following local authorities’ guidance and only traveling when it is safe to do so. The situation has led to significant disruptions for travelers, with Air Canada confirming the cancellation of multiple round-trip flights from Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
What’s Next
Air Canada has announced that affected passengers can request refunds for their canceled flights. Meanwhile, other airlines, including WestJet and Porter Airlines, are also adjusting their policies to accommodate travelers impacted by the situation. Air Transat plans to resume operations to Puerto Vallarta on February 24, 2026, while maintaining flexible options for passengers. Travelers are advised to stay updated on the evolving situation and check with their airlines for the latest information.
