LA Travelers Hit as a Blizzard and Mexico Cartel Leader Killing Disrupts Flights
iSpyVNY - February 23, 2026
LOS ANGELES – Travelers across Southern California are facing increasing flight cancellations as a powerful East Coast blizzard and escalating violence in western Mexico disrupt air travel.
A major winter storm slamming the Northeast has forced more than 5,300 flight cancellations nationwide, according to airline tracking data, with ripple effects reaching Southern California.
At the same time, unrest in Mexico following the reported killing of cartel leader Nemesio “El Mencho” Oseguera Cervantes has led several airlines to suspend or cancel service between Los Angeles and the Mexican cities of Guadalajara and Puerto Vallarta.
Mexican authorities confirmed military operations targeting Oseguera Cervantes, leader of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, on Feb. 22. His reported death triggered violent clashes, vehicle burnings and road blockades in parts of Jalisco state.
The U.S. Department of State issued a security alert today urging U.S. citizens in affected areas to shelter in place and avoid unnecessary travel. The advisory warned that roadblocks and security incidents were disrupting transportation infrastructure in the region.
At LAX, airlines including Volaris, United Airlines and Southwest Airlines canceled select flights bound for Guadalajara International Airport and Puerto Vallarta International Airport.
Marilou Buquid, one traveler affected by the chaos, said she’ll now miss her daughter’s wedding. “I want you to be here but for your safety, I want you to cancel your flight,” she quoted her daughter.
Airport officials encouraged passengers to check directly with their airlines for updated flight information.
Spirit Airlines Ceases Operations, Cancelling all Flights
iSpyVNY - May 2, 2026
NATIONAL – Spirit Airlines has announced the immediate suspension of all flights, effectively marking the end of its operations after more than three decades of service. In a statement posted to its website, the airline expressed regret over the decision and urged passengers not to travel to the airport.
"It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has begun an orderly wind-down of our operations," the statement reads. "As of today, all flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available."
The budget-friendly carrier, known for its ultra-low-cost model, had been in negotiations with the federal government in a last-ditch effort to secure financial assistance and prevent closure. However, the airline confirmed that no agreement was reached, leading to its abrupt shutdown.
The decision brings an end to over 33 years of service, during which Spirit Airlines became a major player in the low-cost airline sector. The company was widely credited with reshaping the airline industry by offering affordable fares, but the pressures of maintaining profitability amid mounting financial challenges proved insurmountable.
Spirit’s closure also results in the loss of thousands of jobs, affecting employees across various departments, from flight crews to support staff.
"We are proud of the impact our ultra-low-cost model has had on the industry over the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come," the airline's statement said.
Passengers with upcoming travel plans are advised to seek alternative arrangements.
Van Nuys Airport Advisory Council Joins City Notification System
iSpyVNY - Feb. 26, 2025
Los Angeles, CA. — The City of Los Angeles operates the Early Notification System (ENS), which keeps residents and interested parties informed about government activities. Through the ENS, subscribers receive emails and a link whenever an agenda for a public meeting is posted, along with access to any related documents uploaded for that meeting.
Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA) has now registered the Van Nuys Citizen Advisory Council (VNY CAC) with the ENS. This step expands outreach by allowing stakeholders to receive timely updates about council meetings and agendas.
The move follows several years of community requests for inclusion. Councilmember Imelda Padilla (CD6) supported efforts to add the VNY CAC to the ENS registry. Observers also note that the appointment of Jacob Haik as Van Nuys Airport manager in mid‑2024 has contributed to improved coordination between LAWA and local stakeholders.
The VNY CAC is the designated citizen advisory body for communities surrounding Van Nuys Airport. LAWA hosts the council’s meetings, which provide a platform for both aviation and non‑aviation stakeholders to share input and stay informed.
Community members can subscribe to receive VNY CAC notifications through the City’s subscription portal.
LA Christmas Air Travel: Record Crowds, TSA Rulees, and a Looming Storm
iSpyVNY - December 22, 2025
LOS ANGELES – Travelers flying out of Los Angeles this holiday season should prepare for both heavy crowds and heavy rains. The TSA published a press release today reminding travelers of REAL ID requirements and announcing a record 44.3 million passengers nationwide during the holidays (December 19 through January 4, 2026), with the busiest day expected to be Sunday, December 28, when 2.86 million people are projected to fly.
As if the crowds weren't enough, a major winter storm is set to impact Southern California starting Tuesday and intensifying on Christmas Eve, bringing predicted downpours and potential flooding. Travelers should expect delays both at the airport and on the roads, especially on routes like the 405 and Century Blvd.