Vehicles pass a burned car a day after the Mexican army killed Jalisco New Generation Cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as ”El Mencho,” in Guadalajara, Mexico, Monday, Feb. 23, 2026. (Image Credit: (AP Photo/Marco Ugarte))

By Tanner Smith with Files from The Canadian Press

AMA

Travel experts offering support to those affected by Mexico travel disruption

Feb 23, 2026 | 2:18 PM

Alberta Motor Association is offering additional services to Albertans needing assistance navigating the Mexico travel disruption.

On Sunday, Feb. 22, government officials in western Mexico warned that Jalisco State is unsafe for travel after a major drug cartel leader known as “El Mencho” was reportedly killed in a military operation to capture him.

The area includes the popular resort city of Puerto Vallarta.

AMA says they are monitoring the situation closely and assisting with travel changes for those currently in the country, and are contacting Albertans who booked trips through them to assist with “travel changes, cancellations or rebookings.”

AMA also notes that their travel experts are available to “provide context, advice, and support for impacted travellers,” on a number of issues:

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• What Albertans currently in affected areas of Mexico should do right now
• What “Exercise a high degree of caution” means in practical terms
• How flight disruptions and cancellations are being handled by airlines
• How travel insurance may respond when advisories are elevated
• What travellers with departures in the coming days should consider before heading to the airport
• The steps AMA Travel is taking to assist impacted members

  Residents can talk with a travel expert by visiting AMA’s website.

Now, Mexican officials say at least 73 people are dead, including security forces, suspected cartel members and others, following the killing Sunday morning of Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”