The recent outbreak of violence in Puerto Vallarta has created significant travel disruptions for Canadians, particularly affecting those trying to return to Edmonton. Many families are still stranded, including the Wywrot family, who were set to fly home on a WestJet flight. Their travel plans were thrown into chaos after disturbances began last Sunday.
Travel Disruptions Due to Violence in Puerto Vallarta
Joselina Wywrot shared the family’s experience from Mexico, stating they received multiple notifications about flight delays. The planned departure was moved to Sunday, but that coincided with a military operation aimed at a local cartel leader. This led to increased violence, road closures, and direct disruptions at the airport.
Ongoing Struggles for Stranded Families
The Wywrot family, alongside the Benson family, found their rebooked flights cancelled. By Thursday, they were still in Puerto Vallarta with limited options for returning home. WestJet has offered hotel accommodations, but the extended delay has been challenging for the families.
- Stranded travellers face medication shortages.
- Children are missing school due to delayed travel.
- Economically, families are experiencing loss of wages.
Airline Responsibilities and Passenger Rights
Air passenger rights advocate Gabor Lukacs emphasized that federal regulations require airlines to rebook passengers on their own flights within 48 hours of a cancellation. When that is not feasible, passengers should be offered refunds or rebooking options on other airlines.
“If seats are available on flights out of Puerto Vallarta, passengers should have been accommodated,” Lukacs remarked.
WestJet’s Response
In response to the ongoing situation, WestJet stated it is working to accommodate stranded guests. The airline announced the addition of 12 extra flights as of Thursday, planning to deploy more depending on demand. They claim to have booked the Wywrot family on a flight for Friday, although the family insists they made the arrangements themselves.
“The uncertainty is what makes this situation so frustrating,” Sandra Benson, part of the Benson family, expressed about their ordeal.
Conclusion
The situation continues to evolve as travellers remain in limbo. With increased airline activity and advocacy for passenger rights, families are hoping to find resolution to their delayed journeys soon.
