Hurricane Simon Forces Closure of Puerto Vallarta International Airport

Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) has been forced to suspend all flight operations due to the approach and impact of Hurricane Simon, a powerful Category 4 storm. The closure, which began as the storm neared Mexico’s Pacific coast, is a necessary safety measure to protect passengers, ground staff, and aircraft from extreme wind and flooding conditions. As of October 11, 2026, the airport was slated to remain closed until at least Monday, October 12, though this timeline is subject to change based on the storm's path and the speed of recovery efforts.

Major weather events like Hurricane Simon create significant logistical challenges for airlines, which must reposition aircraft and crew once the airport reopens. The disruption is expected to cause a ripple effect, leading to delays and cancellations at other major hubs that serve the Puerto Vallarta region. Authorities are currently prioritizing the safety of residents and tourists, with local emergency protocols in full effect.

Travellers currently in Puerto Vallarta attempting to depart, as well as those with inbound flights scheduled to arrive at the airport, are directly affected. Tourists staying in coastal resorts near the path of the storm may also face extended stays due to the suspension of air travel.

Makutet anticipates that the recovery phase at Puerto Vallarta will be slow, as airlines will need to manage a backlog of stranded passengers. We advise travellers to expect significant congestion at the airport in the days following the reopening and to prioritize flexible rebooking options over immediate travel.