A Delta Air Lines flight traveling from Detroit to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, was forced to divert to Alabama on Sunday after growing civil unrest in western Mexico, according to airline officials. The decision was made as security conditions near the destination airport became unstable following violent clashes linked to a military operation targeting a major cartel figure.
The disruption occurred after Mexican military forces carried out an operation in the state of Jalisco. Authorities reported that the operation targeted a prominent cartel leader who was injured during the raid in Tapalpa and later died while being transported for medical treatment. His death triggered widespread violence, including roadblocks set up with burning vehicles in several regions, a tactic often used by criminal groups to interfere with military movement.
Delta flight 1901 departed Detroit Metropolitan Airport at approximately 8:22 a.m. Eastern Time. Flight tracking data showed the Boeing 737 aircraft was flying near the Mexican state of Nuevo León when the crew received updated security information. Following internal safety protocols, the flight changed course and landed at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport in Alabama around 2:18 p.m. ET.
Airline representatives stated that passenger and crew safety was the primary factor behind the diversion. The company issued an apology to travelers affected by the unexpected delay and explained that conditions near Puerto Vallarta had deteriorated due to unrest and airport operational disruptions.
Most passengers were later rebooked on a return flight to Detroit. Flight tracking information showed another Delta flight departing Birmingham in the evening and arriving safely in the Detroit area later that night. One passenger described the situation as concerning but expressed relief that the aircraft was diverted before reaching the conflict zone, noting that being stranded in an unstable environment would have been far more dangerous.
Flights departing from Puerto Vallarta International Airport were temporarily suspended following the violence. U.S. authorities also released travel security advisories encouraging American citizens in several Mexican states to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement until the situation stabilizes.
The U.S. State Department issued guidance recommending that travelers register for emergency notification programs so they can be contacted quickly during international security incidents. Officials said such enrollment helps improve communication during emergencies.
Reports from the region indicated that cartel-related clashes included vehicle fires, road blockages, and disruptions to transportation infrastructure. These methods are often used by organized criminal groups to slow law enforcement operations.
Meanwhile, a Metro Detroit resident staying at a resort in Puerto Vallarta said tourists in the area were advised to stay inside their accommodations. The woman, who chose to remain anonymous, said families traveling with children were trying to stay calm despite uncertainty around them.
She described seeing smoke from a burning grocery store and hearing warnings about possible hostage risks circulating among visitors. Although she felt the location of her hotel was relatively safe, she said authorities advised guests to limit outdoor activity and remain alert.
Officials continue monitoring the security situation in western Mexico as airlines review travel schedules. Travelers planning trips to the region are urged to check flight updates and government advisories before departure.
Passengers and families can monitor transportation and security developments through airline notifications and official travel safety announcements.
