Southern Connecticut is about to witness a fierce competition between two discount airlines, Breeze Airways and Avelo. With Breeze’s recent announcement of introducing 10 routes from Tweed Airport in New Haven, Connecticut, where Avelo currently maintains its primary East Coast base, a showdown is on the horizon.
Breeze Airways is set to launch routes from New Haven with a focus on Florida destinations. In December, they will offer flights to Fort Myers, Orlando, West Palm Beach, and Vero Beach. Additionally, starting in February, they will add flights to Jacksonville and Sarasota. Apart from Florida, Breeze will also operate flights to Charleston, Norfolk, Richmond, and Raleigh-Durham from New Haven, directly competing with Avelo on six of the 10 routes.
Avelo’s Response
Following Breeze’s move into New Haven, Avelo responded by announcing service from Bradley Airport near Hartford, Connecticut. Avelo will offer its first international routes to Cancun and Montego Bay starting in November. With both airlines expanding their operations in the region, a head-to-head battle for market share seems inevitable.
Growth Strategies
Breeze’s chief commercial officer, Lukas Johnson, highlighted the airline’s focus on the Northeast region of the U.S. due to its high population density and limited nonstop travel options. Johnson emphasized that Breeze’s affordable flights from convenient airports like Hartford, Westchester County, Providence, Stewart-Newburgh, and now New Haven are a game-changer for residents in the area.
Avelo currently operates 26 routes from New Haven, while Breeze manages 18 routes from Hartford. Breeze has plans to further expand in Hartford, including the addition of international services in the near future. The airline is in the final stages of securing certification for international flying and aims to start selling international destinations by the end of the year. Avelo and Breeze, both launched in 2021, have distinct fleet strategies with Avelo relying on older Boeing 737NG aircraft and Breeze transitioning to new Airbus A220 small mainline jets. Despite their differences, both airlines prioritize leisure flying, catering to passengers seeking affordable travel options.
The battle between Breeze Airways and Avelo in Southern Connecticut marks an exciting chapter in the region’s aviation industry. As these discount airlines vie for customers and market dominance, passengers can expect increased connectivity, affordable fares, and expanded travel options in the coming months.