Key Points:

  • Breeze Airways, founded in 2021, is exploring international expansion, aiming to launch flights to sun destinations and Europe, pending FAA approval.

  • CEO David Neeleman sees potential in 'peak season' travel, particularly to destinations like Ireland, capitalizing on market gaps left by other airlines.

  • Amidst expansion plans, Breeze recently added Ogden, Utah, to its network, announcing new flights starting February 2024 to Orange County-Santa Ana, California.


Breeze Airways Aims for International Skies

SALT LAKE CITY — Breeze Airways, a rapidly growing low-cost US carrier since its inception in 2021, is setting its sights on international destinations. The airline is currently in the process of seeking necessary approvals from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to extend its services beyond the United States. David Neeleman, CEO of Breeze Airways, has expressed ambitions to tap into the international travel market, particularly focusing on popular sun destinations and select locations in Europe. Neeleman's strategy revolves around leveraging peak travel seasons to places like Ireland, aligning with the airline's philosophy of connecting underserved destinations.

Neeleman, known for his innovative approach in the aviation sector, reiterated to Reuters the airline's mission of serving routes neglected or abandoned by other carriers. Breeze's strategy is to fill these "pockets of pain" in the market, which lack adequate air service or rely heavily on regional flights to major hubs. This market shift, according to Neeleman, has opened numerous opportunities for Breeze Airways.

Expanding Network and Service Offerings

Breeze Airways recently announced the addition of Ogden, Utah, to its growing list of destinations. Starting February 21, 2024, the airline will commence flights connecting Ogden to Orange County-Santa Ana, California. Tom Doxey, President of Breeze Airways, highlighted this expansion as a significant milestone, offering Ogden residents convenient and affordable travel options to sought-after destinations. The airline currently serves 45 cities across 27 states but has yet to venture into international or non-contiguous U.S. territories.

Breeze operates a diverse fleet that includes Embraer 190 and 195 aircraft as well as Airbus A220-300 jets. The airline's business model is structured around offering three tiers of fare options: "Nice," "Nicer," and "Nicest." The latter includes Breeze Ascent, featuring benefits such as checked baggage, complimentary snacks and beverages, and in-seat power and charging ports. With these customer-centric offerings and its ambitious expansion plans, Breeze Airways is poised to redefine the low-cost travel experience both domestically and, potentially, internationally.