Flights at Guadalajara’s international airport experienced disruptions and delays Sunday, February 22, 2026, following reports of a security operation targeting Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, alias “El Mencho,” leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Although authorities maintain the airport remains operational, travelers are advised to allow extra time for transport due to ongoing road blockades and security measures.
Initial reports indicated potential disruptions to both domestic and international flights. As of 1:00 PM local time, several flights were delayed or cancelled, including VivaAerobus flight VB7005 to Ciudad Juárez, and Volaris flight Y41083 to Monterrey. A Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta (DL1992) landed as scheduled at 8:58 AM, and a United Airlines flight from Houston (UA2346) touched down at 10:32 AM. Still, other arrivals and departures faced uncertainty. A review of the airport’s flight schedule shows a mix of estimated, on-time, and cancelled flights throughout the afternoon and evening.
The situation unfolded after a high-risk operation was launched in the mountainous region of Tapalpa, Jalisco, according to security sources. The operation reportedly targeted “El Mencho,” one of Mexico’s most wanted criminals. Following the reports, suspected CJNG affiliates responded with roadblocks and vehicle fires, creating chaos across the state and extending into neighboring regions including Michoacán, Nayarit, and Guanajuato.
Despite initial reports circulating on social media suggesting a takeover of the airport, authorities have stated that security forces – including elements of the National Guard (GN) and the Secretary of National Defense (SEDENA) – have maintained control of the airport facilities. Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), the operator of the Guadalajara airport, issued a statement confirming that operations were continuing normally, with no cancellations or impacts to air operations. The airport remains under heightened security.
However, the airport issued a preventative advisory urging passengers to factor in extra travel time. Authorities attributed reports of significant disruption within the terminal itself to “psychosis” among passengers, leading to perceptions that did not reflect the actual situation. The advisory comes as authorities work to manage the fallout from the reported operation and maintain order amidst the unrest.