12 Flight Cancellations and Over 300 delays in Mexico City, Cancun, Johannesburg and More, as Airports Face Major Disruptions Hampering Travel and Tourism Globally: Everything You Need to Know

Published on November 25, 2025

Mexico City, Cancun, and Johannesburg, three major tourist hubs, are currently grappling with significant flight delays and cancellations. These disruptions could have far-reaching consequences for travelers and the tourism industry. Recently, travelers have faced huge disruptions as these airports experienced a surge in flight cancellations and delays. The delays are not just a matter of inconvenience, but could also affect the flow of tourism to these world-renowned destinations. Here’s a detailed overview of what’s happening at these key airports, how it’s impacting travelers, and what it means for tourism in these destinations.

Disruptions at Mexico’s Airports: What It Means for Tourists

In Mexico, the two most important airports—Mexico City International (MEX) and Cancun International (CUN)—are seeing delays that threaten to disrupt the flow of international tourists. Mexico City International (MEX) saw 35 delayed flights, while Cancun International (CUN) had 48 delayed flights in the last week alone. While flight cancellations were relatively low (just two at Cancun), the delays are concerning for travelers who depend on punctuality to maintain their tight schedules.

Mexico, as one of the world’s leading tourist destinations, has always relied on smooth airport operations to handle the massive influx of visitors every year. The delay in flights could discourage international travelers from visiting, especially those on tight business schedules or short vacations. Tourists may also reconsider booking flights to Mexico City or Cancun if the delays persist.

Disruptions in Johannesburg and Cape Town: A Setback for South African Tourism

Across the globe, Johannesburg OR Tambo International (JNB) and Cape Town International (CPT) are facing similar disruptions. Johannesburg’s busiest airport, OR Tambo, has recorded 214 delayed flights, while Cape Town saw 61 delayed flights. The number of cancellations has also affected South Africa’s international image as a prime tourist destination.

These delays create a domino effect in the tourism industry. When flights are delayed or cancelled, travelers are forced to change their plans, impacting not only their experience but also the local economy. South Africa is known for its wildlife, adventure tourism, and vibrant culture. However, as flight disruptions increase, tourists may be hesitant to plan trips to the country, particularly those traveling from abroad.

Flight Delay and Cancellation Statistics:

To give you a clearer picture of the disruptions, here is the detailed table showing the recent cancellations and delays at the affected airports:

As seen in the table above, Johannesburg OR Tambo International is facing the highest number of delayed flights, with a staggering 214 delayed. This has caused significant inconvenience for travelers, especially those relying on connecting flights. The delays at Cancun International and Mexico City International might be more moderate, but the 48 delayed flights in Cancun are still a major concern for tourists.

How These Delays Impact Tourism

Delays and cancellations can cause frustration for travelers. When flights are delayed, tourists may miss connecting flights, lose valuable vacation time, or even face additional costs. These disruptions can lead to negative experiences, which, in turn, harm the reputation of the destination. Tourists who face delays may share their bad experiences on social media, which could dissuade others from visiting these destinations in the future.

In the tourism industry, consistency and reliability are key to attracting international travelers. When airport operations become unreliable, tourists will begin to question whether it’s worth the hassle to visit certain destinations. The emotional toll on travelers who are excited to explore Mexico, South Africa, and other countries can’t be ignored.

What Governments Are Doing to Address the Situation

Both Mexico and South Africa are aware of the challenges posed by these delays and cancellations. According to government reports, airports are working hard to address the root causes of these disruptions. Mexico’s transport authority has committed to increasing resources to support the busiest airports, improving infrastructure, and optimizing scheduling systems to reduce delays. Similarly, in South Africa, government officials have promised to invest in technology and streamline airport operations to minimize disruptions.

While these measures will take time to implement, there is hope that the situation will improve. However, in the short term, tourists may still face delays that could affect their overall travel experience.

The Long-Term Effect on Tourism

Despite the efforts by governments, the long-term effects on tourism are concerning. When international travelers experience disruptions at major airports, they are more likely to book their flights to other destinations in the future. Mexico and South Africa’s status as prime tourist locations may be jeopardized if flight delays continue to rise.

The tourist market is competitive, with countries constantly vying for visitors. If travelers face poor experiences due to flight delays, they will quickly turn to other options that offer more reliable services. Mexico, Cancun, Johannesburg, and Cape Town all need to address these challenges to maintain their position as top tourist destinations.

Looking Ahead

The recent wave of delays and cancellations at Mexico City, Cancun, and Johannesburg airports is more than just a temporary inconvenience; it’s a sign of the challenges facing the tourism industry. The frustration felt by travelers can have long-term consequences on the number of visitors flocking to these iconic locations. If governments and airports can address the underlying causes and restore smooth operations, these destinations may recover. But for now, tourists need to be prepared for potential delays and cancellations when planning their trips.