Breeze Airways is making waves in the travel world. This up-and-coming U.S. airline is launching its very first flights outside the country. After more than a decade without a new American carrier approved for international routes, Breeze got the green light from the Federal Aviation Administration. Starting this winter, passengers can jet off to sunny spots in Mexico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic. It’s a smart move for Breeze, known for cheap fares and no-frills service on domestic trips. Now, they’re bringing that vibe to beach lovers everywhere. With all-inclusive resorts waiting, these new paths could fill seats fast and boost the airline’s growth.
The news is buzzing among travelers who crave easy getaways. Breeze, founded by industry vet David Neeleman, picked spots that scream vacation mode. Think white sands, turquoise waters, and hassle-free stays where everything—from meals to drinks—is covered. Neeleman shared with USA TODAY why these picks fit like a glove. “We picked places that have all-inclusive resorts because people like to go on Saturday and fly back (the following) Saturday,” he said. It’s a perfect match for Breeze’s setup. Their usual busy days are Thursdays, Fridays, Sundays, and Mondays. Saturdays? That’s when things quiet down at home base. So, why not use that open space to shuttle folks to paradise?
Neeleman promises the same top-notch treatment abroad as at home. “We’re excited to be able to fly people out of the country,” he added. “You can expect the same great service and the same great airplanes on international, and I think it’s going to be a big hit with our guests.” No skimping here—Breeze’s modern jets and friendly crews will make the trip smooth. For families, couples, or solo adventurers eyeing a quick escape, this means affordable access to dream spots without the big-airline price tags. It’s a fresh option in a market dominated by giants like Delta and American.
These launches come at a great time. Winter blues hit hard in the U.S., and nothing cures them like a Caribbean breeze. Cancún’s lively beaches, Montego Bay’s chill vibes, and Punta Cana’s luxury resorts draw millions yearly. Breeze isn’t reinventing the wheel—they’re just making it cheaper and simpler. Seasonal flights mean they’re testing the waters without overcommitting. If it clicks, more routes could follow. Neeleman hinted at big plans ahead: “Breeze plans to expand to more international destinations in the future.” Could Europe or South America be next? For now, these three hotspots are the stars.
Breeze’s New International Routes Breakdown
Breeze is rolling out flights from cities they already know well. Each route targets weekend warriors with Saturday hops, plus a few mid-week options for flexibility. Fares are introductory one-way basics, starting super low to lure in first-timers. But heads up—they’re promo deals with limits on seats and dates. Here’s the scoop on where you’re headed and when:
To Cancún, Mexico
This party paradise tops the list with four U.S. gateways. Flights kick off in January and February, all on Saturdays for that easy weekend vibe.
- Charleston, South Carolina: Seasonal Saturday flights start Jan. 17 from $119. Grab your shades—it’s beach time from the South.
- New Orleans: Seasonal Saturday flights start Feb. 7 from $99. Jazz up your trip with the lowest fare yet.
- Norfolk, Virginia: Seasonal Saturday flights start Jan. 10 from $139. East Coast flyers, your Mayan ruins await.
- Providence, Rhode Island: Seasonal Saturday flights start Feb. 14 from $159. Northeast escape with a Valentine’s twist.
To Montego Bay, Jamaica
Jamaica’s got that irie feel, and Breeze is linking it with two spots. Mix of weekdays keeps options open beyond just weekends.
- Raleigh, North Carolina: Seasonal Thursday and Sunday flights start March 5 from $139. Mid-Atlantic folks, reggae calls.
- Tampa, Florida: Seasonal Wednesday and Saturday flights start Feb. 11 from $99. Sunshine State special at rock-bottom prices.
To Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
All-inclusive heaven gets one dedicated route for now, but it’s a solid start with twice-weekly service.
- Raleigh: Seasonal Wednesday and Saturday flights start March 4 from $159. Double up from the same North Carolina hub as Montego Bay.
All these paths use Breeze’s Embraer E-Jets, comfy for short hauls with extras like Wi-Fi and snacks for a fee. Total flight times? Under four hours from most spots—quick hops to bliss. Promo fares make round-trips under $300 possible if you snag ’em early. Book via Breeze’s site for the best deals, and watch for bundles with resorts.
This push marks a milestone for Breeze. Launched in 2021, the airline zoomed to over 150 routes by focusing on “nice and easy” travel. No middle seats, pick-your-own perks, and fares from $39 domestically hooked budget hunters. Now, international approval catapults them into a new league. It’s rare—last U.S. newbie to go global was Allegiant in 2015. Breeze beat the odds with quick FAA nods, proving their model’s ready for borders.
Travel pros see upside. Caribbean tourism is rebounding post-pandemic, with 2024 visitor numbers nearing pre-COVID peaks. All-inclusives thrive there, pulling in 70% of U.S. tourists. Breeze’s Saturday focus taps peak resort check-ins, smart for load factors. Challenges? Fuel costs and competition from JetBlue (Neeleman’s old gig). But low overhead keeps them nimble.
For everyday flyers, it’s a win. Smaller airports like Providence cut drive times versus hubs. Eco-angle: Shorter routes mean less emissions per trip. Neeleman’s vision? Democratize escapes. “It’s a good complement to what we’re doing already,” he noted. As winter looms, these flights offer a sunny salve.
Breeze’s debut abroad could reshape budget travel. Will it spark a wave of low-cost carriers chasing globals? Stay tuned—Neeleman’s track record with JetBlue says yes. For now, pack your flip-flops. The Caribbean’s calling, and Breeze is your ride.
