Breeze Airways Doubling Service to Orlando Before First Flight Takes Off

Early success enables Breeze to increase Orlando frequency and plane size

CHARLESTON, WV – Just three weeks after Breeze Airways tickets went on sale, West Virginia International Yeager Airport’s newest low-cost carrier has already increased the number of weekly flights to Orlando, Florida for summer travel. Ticket sales to Orlando have been one of the company’s strongest route launches to date.  

Due to stronger than expected sales, Breeze has added two additional weekly flights from CRW to Orlando, Florida (MCO). The flights will now operate to MCO on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, through August 15 when it will revert to two flights weekly. Additionally, the airline plans to fly larger planes, Airbus 220-300 aircraft with 137 seats, including first-class seating and more legroom options for passengers. Tickets are available immediately.  

“We couldn’t be happier with our launch from West Virginia,” said Founder and CEO David Neeleman. “As flights fill up, Breeze always looks to grow, adding flights and destinations whenever possible.”

These flights are a part of a larger partnership announced between West Virginia and Breeze on March 28, 2023. The partnership between Breeze, the state’s Department of Tourism, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston will provide direct air service between West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) and at least five cities over the next two years. New, nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) are set to begin May 31, 2023, with at least three more destinations, including New York City, slated to be added over the next 24 months. This innovative partnership comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport. 

“We are thrilled to see the early bookings for Orlando and receive notification of this expansion before the flights even begin,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “We are very excited to see this partnership taking off. I’m really looking forward to seeing those blue planes touching down at CRW with new folks just waiting to explore Almost Heaven, West Virginia.”

“CRW is very excited to welcome Breeze to our market in May,” said Airport Director & CEO Dominique Ranieri. “The fact that the Breeze is already seeing strong demand and adding frequency means that our passengers are excited, as well.”

Breeze was launched in 2021 by JetBlue founder and former CEO David Neeleman with a mission to fill a key gap in America’s air-travel offerings: efficient, affordable, direct flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. It was recently named one of the best domestic airlines in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. Breeze offers travelers the option of three price levels, “Nice,” “Nicer,” and “Nicest,” the latter of which includes a first-class seat on the airline’s Airbus A220 aircraft. 

Breeze has grown rapidly since its founding, now with 147 nonstop routes between 36 cities in 22 states nationally. The airline has ordered 80 brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with options for 40 more. 

Those wanting to book a flight from Charleston to Orlando or Charleston, South Carolina, can do so now at www.flybreeze.com or via the Breeze app. To access the media kit, click here.

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About Breeze Airways

Breeze Airways began service in May 2021. One year later, it was ranked as the No. 2 U.S. best domestic airline of 2021 by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.  Breeze now offers a mix of 147 year-round and seasonal nonstop routes between 36 cities in 22 states. Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, Breeze operates a fleet of Embraer 190/195 and Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with a focus on providing efficient and affordable flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. With seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees, up to 24-months of reusable flight credit and customized flight features – including complimentary family seating – delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to buy and easy to fly. Flights are on sale at flybreeze.com and via the Breeze app.

About West Virginia Tourism

The West Virginia Department of Tourism promotes West Virginia as a leading four-season travel destination and top state to live, work and retire. Known as the Mountain State, West Virginia is one of the most scenic states in the United States and home to thousands of acres of parks and public lands, including America’s newest national park and 45 state parks and forests. In addition to its majestic mountains and rolling hills, West Virginia is full of rich historic sites, enchanting art galleries, charming towns and an immense sense of belonging found only in its heaven-like landscapes. More information at wvtourism.com.

About West Virginia International Yeager Airport

With competitive airfares to destinations worldwide and nonstop flights to major airports, West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) strives to make the travel experience enjoyable and hassle-free. Convenient parking within walking distance of the terminal and security lines with short waiting times make CRW one of the most passenger-friendly airports in the nation. A short drive from downtown Charleston and just a few minutes from the intersection of three major interstates, CRW is a breeze to get to. CRW is located in Charleston but services Huntington and southern West Virginia. More information at yeagerairport.com.

Media Contacts

Gareth Edmondson-Jones
Breeze Airways
917-399-9355
Gareth.EdmondsonJones@FlyBreeze.com

Lauren Hough
West Virginia Department of Tourism
304-352-0513
Lauren.Hough@wv.gov

This post was last updated on April 20, 2023