Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara Airports Reopen as Travel Disruption Eases

Travel operations in Mexico's Jalisco state are steadily returning to normal after two days of severe disruption. Airports in Puerto Vallarta and Guadalajara are now operating at approximately 95% of their scheduled flights, according to the regional airport authority. This follows a period of suspended service after the killing of a major cartel leader on Sunday sparked widespread road blockades and isolated violence.

While the immediate shelter-in-place orders have been lifted for many Mexican states, the U.S. Embassy's advisory for Jalisco and neighboring Nayarit remains in effect, urging citizens to avoid non-essential movement due to lingering criminal activity. Most major roadblocks have been cleared, but officials caution that some routes, including the highway between Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta, are not yet fully reopened.

Major airlines, including American, Delta, United, and Aeromexico, have resumed service to both cities. Carriers are offering flexible rebooking options for passengers affected by the recent cancellations, typically allowing free changes for travel through the end of the month. Travelers are advised to confirm their flight status directly with their airline before heading to the airport and to allot extra time for their journey.

The U.S. Embassy continues to operate emergency hotlines for American citizens. Officials recommend that all travelers in the region stay alert, avoid areas of police or military activity, and enroll in the State Department's Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for direct updates.