Governor Patrick Morrisey announced that Breeze Airways, the acclaimed low-cost carrier, will be expanding existing routes and adding up to five new flights from West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW). Routes will be added over the next 24 months and priority will be given to Las Vegas and a Texas city. Travelers can now book nonstop service to Tampa with fares starting at just $49 one way.
“Breeze Airways’ expansion is another sign that our state is on the rise, attracting new investments and delivering more travel options for West Virginians,” said Governor Morrisey. “This continued growth at CRW will grow tourism, add jobs, and let the rest of the world see what the Mountain State has to offer. These new flights are a testament to the fact that our efforts to make the state more attractive to business are working.”
Breeze has become one of the fastest-growing airlines in the world, now operating more than 300 direct routes to 72 cities in 32 states. Nearly 80,000 passengers have flown Breeze to or from CRW since the inaugural flight in May 2023. A recent study shows that in one year of operation at CRW, Breeze generated an estimated $27.5 million in total economic output, including $12.5 million from direct airline and airport operations, $3.2 million from passenger spending, and $11.8 million in indirect and induced impacts. The presence of the new low-cost carrier has also resulted in a 12.5% decrease in fares since Breeze began service at CRW.
“We are excited to continue expanding our partnership with the state of West Virginia as we bring back our Tampa nonstop service,” said Fiona Kiesel, Breeze Airways’ chief guest officer. “As we have continued to build our brand awareness in the state and region, we have seen growing demand for our service. We look forward to not only connecting our Guests in Charleston to new destinations through this partnership, but also making it easier for travelers from other areas to visit historic Charleston.”
“Since entering into an agreement with Breeze Airways in 2022, West Virginia International Yeager Airport has more than doubled its nonstop destinations,” said Dominique Ranieri, Airport Director and CEO of West Virginia International Yeager Airport. “Passenger traffic continues to rise, with over 401,000 travelers passing through CRW last year. The airport is responsible for nearly 3,000 jobs and contributes more than $225 million in economic impact across the state.”
Breeze’s initial agreement with West Virginia has produced such dramatic results that community support has grown. The new two-year partnership with the airline includes support from the West Virginia Department of Tourism, Charleston Area Alliance, Kanawha County Commission and the City of Charleston. Additionally, the airport has secured a Small Community Air Service Development Grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation to assist with the Las Vegas, NV flight.
“We’re thrilled to enter into this innovative partnership with Breeze Airways, the State of West Virginia, West Virginia International Yeager Airport, Kanawha County and the City of Charleston through this investment,” said Mara Boggs, President & CEO of the Charleston Area Alliance and Chamber of Commerce. “It strengthens our region’s connectivity, sparks new business opportunities, and boosts job growth—while enhancing the quality of life for families and communities across the Kanawha Valley and beyond.”
The response to new non-stop connectivity to Orlando (MCO) and Tampa, FL (TPA) and Myrtle Beach, SC (MYR) has been unprecedented. The popularity of these flights has exceeded expectations, calling for additional flight frequency to be added.
“We are thrilled that our airport continues to grow and offer additional services to the people of West Virginia,” said Commission President Ben Salango. “The additional flights by Breeze will be a wonderful addition to our airport and expand upon Breeze’s incredible success at Yeager International Airport.”
“This is more than just an announcement about new air service—it’s a powerful opportunity to grow our airport, drive economic development, and make it easier for West Virginians across the country to find their way home,” said Kanawha County Commissioner Lance Wheeler. “When we invest in connectivity, we invest in our people and our future. I want to thank Governor Morrisey, Secretary Ruby, the Charleston Area Alliance, and the City of Charleston for their partnership and shared commitment to progress. Together, we’re showing that West Virginia is open for business, open for visitors, and open to bringing our people back home.”
“We have seen time and time again, with partnership and collaboration between the City, County and State, we can compete with anyone in the country,” said Charleston Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin. “This partnership will help provide essential services to our residents while allowing Charleston, and our region, to continue to be a major destination for travelers, which spurs jobs, economic growth and a strong future for our state.”
With seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees, up to 24 months of reusable flight credit, free family seating, a la carte pricing and customized flight features delivered via a sleek and simple app, Breeze makes it easy to buy and easy to fly. Learn more about Breeze’s flight offerings via their site or the app.
