'We're just sitting ducks on a plane': WI family faces scary scene at Mexico airport
A Green Bay family’s vacation to Mexico took a terrifying turn when violence erupted following reports that a prominent cartel leader known as ‘El Mencho’ had been killed. The Wix family, traveling with about 15 relatives, was headed to Puerto Vallarta, departing from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, expecting a week filled with sunshine and ocean views.
The Journey Begins
Trevor Wix, a member of the family, shared their initial excitement as they flew over the ocean. “We looked down, we saw dolphins jumping out of the water, and we even spotted some humpback whales. We were like, ‘Oh, this is gonna be wonderful,’” Wix recalled. However, as the plane descended into Puerto Vallarta, their excitement quickly turned to concern when they noticed black smoke rising over the city.
Unfolding Chaos
Upon arrival, the plane pulled up to the gate, but the family found themselves sitting on the tarmac for an extended period. “We’re just sitting there and sitting there and sitting there some more,” Wix said. It wasn’t long before the pilot announced that there were issues in the city that prevented them from disembarking. “He said, ‘Hey, there’s some stuff going on in the city right now. We can’t let you off, like it is not good,’” Wix explained.
Flight Response
The situation escalated rapidly as Wix and his family observed chaos unfolding around them. “We looked to our right, and the entire airport, including airport personnel, everyone is sprinting onto the tarmac. We didn’t know what was going on. We’re like, ‘Oh my god, the cartel is inside,’” Wix described the panic. Feeling vulnerable, he added, “And we’re just sitting ducks on a plane.”
Returning Home
After nearly two hours on the runway, the pilot made the decision to return to Milwaukee. Wix noted, “He hit the jets instantly. There was no stopping. I’ve never taken off so fast in my life.” The family was relieved to be heading back home safely, reflecting on how quickly a situation could change from good to bad. “I think it was eye-opening. The fact you can see how fast it can go from good to bad in a blink of an eye,” Wix concluded.
Ongoing Concerns
As the Wix family returned home, many Americans remained stranded in Mexico due to the escalating violence. The United States government issued a shelter-in-place advisory for affected areas, urging travelers to stay informed through the U.S. Embassy and Consulates for updates.
Conclusion
The Wix family’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of travel, particularly in regions experiencing unrest. Their story highlights the importance of staying aware of local conditions and having contingency plans in place while traveling abroad.
Frequently Asked Questions
The chaos was triggered by reports of violence following the rumored death of a prominent cartel leader, which led to panic at the airport as personnel and travelers attempted to evacuate the area.
The Wix family felt scared and vulnerable as they watched airport personnel running for safety. They described feeling like “sitting ducks” on the plane as they awaited further instructions.
Travelers should stay informed about local conditions, heed government advisories, and maintain communication with their country’s embassy for guidance and support during emergencies.
Note: The situation in regions with cartel activity can change rapidly, and travelers are advised to exercise caution and stay updated on safety protocols.
