HOUSTON – Houston-area travelers are already seeing disruptions as violence escalates in parts of western Mexico following the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, El Mencho.
At George Bush Intercontinental Airport, one departure to Puerto Vallarta has been canceled.
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Three arrivals, from Guadalajara, Puerto Vallarta, and Morelia, were also canceled Sunday night.
Similar cancellations have been reported at William P. Hobby Airport.
While other flights between Houston and Mexico remain scheduled for now, officials warn conditions can change quickly.
The unrest comes as Greg Abbott urges Texans to follow federal travel warnings. The U.S. Department of State is advising Americans in Jalisco and several other states to shelter in place due to ongoing security operations, road blockages, and criminal activity.
One former Sugar Land resident who now lives in Aguascalientes says roads near his home are blocked, and he’s staying inside out of caution. He also says friends who traveled to Guadalajara for the weekend have not responded to his messages.
“You know, there have been explosions and car bombings here before,” he said. “So what we usually do is stay inside and stay off the roads. At first I was nervous and scared, but now we’re just hanging in and hoping everything settles down.”
What to do if your flight is canceled
If your flight is canceled, travel experts recommend:
- Check your airline’s app or website first. Many airlines automatically rebook passengers on the next available flight.
- Know your refund options. If the airline cancels your flight, you are generally entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel — even on nonrefundable tickets.
- Ask about change-fee waivers. During safety events or government advisories, airlines often allow travelers to reschedule without penalty.
- Monitor travel advisories. Conditions on the ground can shift quickly. Review the latest State Department guidance before deciding whether to rebook.
- Consider travel insurance. Policies vary, but some may cover trip interruptions or cancellations depending on the circumstances.
For families at Houston airports, the concern is twofold: whether more cancellations are coming and whether loved ones in affected areas are safe.
If you have travel planned to Mexico, officials recommend checking directly with your airline for the latest flight status, enrolling in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for real-time alerts, and reviewing all federal travel warnings before your trip.