
Breeze Airways is set to embark on its first international journey, announcing a significant expansion into Mexico and the Caribbean. The low-cost carrier has secured regulatory approval to launch seven new routes, connecting several U.S. cities to popular warm-weather destinations during the winter months. This move marks a major milestone for the airline, fulfilling a long-held ambition.
Key Takeaways
- Breeze Airways will launch its first international flights in early 2024.
- The expansion includes seven new routes to Mexico and the Caribbean.
- Destinations include Cancun, Montego Bay, and Punta Cana.
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) will become a crew base in 2026.
International Route Details
Breeze Airways will offer nonstop service to several tropical destinations, primarily focusing on Cancun, Mexico, as well as Montego Bay, Jamaica, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. These new international routes are scheduled to commence between January and March 2024 and will operate seasonally on specific days of the week.
Here is a breakdown of the new international routes:
- Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) to Cancun, Mexico (CUN): Launching January 17, operating Saturdays seasonally.
- New Orleans (MSY) to Cancun, Mexico (CUN): Launching February 7, operating Saturdays seasonally.
- Norfolk, Virginia (ORF) to Cancun, Mexico (CUN): Launching January 10, operating Saturdays seasonally.
- Providence, Rhode Island (PVD) to Cancun, Mexico (CUN): Launching February 14, operating Saturdays seasonally.
- Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (RDU) to Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ): Launching March 5, operating twice weekly (Thursdays and Sundays) seasonally.
- Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (RDU) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ): Launching March 4, operating twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays) seasonally.
- Tampa, Florida (TPA) to Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ): Launching February 11, operating twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays).
Raleigh-Durham Becomes a Crew Base
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is set to become a significant hub for Breeze Airways, with the airline announcing it will establish an official crew base there in early 2026. This move is expected to bring approximately 200 pilot and flight attendant jobs to the Research Triangle area. RDU will be Breeze’s twelfth crew base, further solidifying its presence in North Carolina.
Future International Growth
This initial seven-route expansion is viewed as just the beginning for Breeze Airways’ international ambitions. Having recently obtained flag carrier status from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the airline plans to further develop its international network, leveraging its growing fleet of Airbus A220 aircraft. The company aims to start with popular destinations and gradually expand its offerings.
Onboard Experience
Breeze Airways will utilize its Airbus A220 aircraft for these international flights. While operating as a low-cost carrier, the A220s offer a comfortable cabin with 12 first-class-style recliner seats, 45 extra-legroom seats, and 80 standard coach seats. The airline provides four fare tiers: No Flex (basic fare), Nice (includes a carry-on), Nicer (includes a checked bag and carry-on), and Nicest (includes two checked bags, a carry-on, and an Ascent seat).
Sources
- Breeze goes international with 7-route Mexico, Caribbean expansion, The Points Guy.