Breeze Airways Bringing “Premium Leisure” Travel to Erie Region
Travelers flying in and out of the Erie International Airport will have more options come this November when low-cost carrier Breeze Airways begins direct flights to and from Orlando, Florida.
Commencing operation in 2021 and currently serving over 60 U.S cities, Breeze Airways offers a unique “premium leisure” model that focuses not only on affordability, as other low-cost carriers, but also on efficiency, comfort, and accessibility. ERI customers will have the opportunity to experience the difference for themselves two times every week — once on Wednesdays and again on Saturdays — starting November 6.
“The Erie Regional Airport Authority and community are excited about the new low-cost travel options offered by Breeze Airways, the nation’s premier low-cost carrier,” said Derek Martin, executive director of the Erie Regional Airport Authority. Referring to their bundle options, he added, “Breeze Airways will bring their nice, nicer, nicest product offerings to the regional community.”
The new service was the result of ongoing efforts by the ERAA and the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership, along with local legislators, business leaders, and community members, to bring new service to the airport after the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic and recent airline departures. “This community came together to make this happen,” Martin said.
Breeze will be utilizing their fleet of new 137-seat Airbus A220 aircraft with fares ranging around $59. Breeze’s flexible bundle pricing offers additional legroom, premium seats, checked luggage, in-flight high-speed Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and beverages. Travelers can also choose options a la cart to customize their experience to their unique needs.
“We have continued to see opportunities for growth in Pennsylvania, and Erie is a great example of a market with a large community but limited air service,” said David Neeleman, founder and CEO of Breeze Airways. “We’re excited to enter Erie in November with a great destination in Orlando, including many family-friendly activities. Breeze is all about more affordable, yet elevated travel options, and that’s what we’ll be bringing to Erie.”
Promising to be “Seriously Nice” as compared to others in the industry, the Utah-based Breeze Airways recently ranked as one of Travel + Leisure magazine’s “Best Domestic Airlines” for a third year straight and was awarded “Best Seat Comfort in North America” in June 2024 by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX).
“We offer a low price point but a really nice product,” said Bud Hafer, Breeze Airways’ director of government and airport affairs. “We’re excited to get out there and start flying.” Erie’s economic foundation and demand for more air service options played a part in Breeze choosing Erie, according to Hafer.
Begun by the ERAA and the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership in 2023, the Fly Erie Fund provided additional incentives for the airline to operate in Erie. Businesses and organizations committed to funding the program currently include Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, the City of Erie, Erie Insurance, Visit Erie, Erie Events, Hardinger Transportation, and McDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP.
“The Fly Erie Fund, LLC was created to support airlines looking to expand and to enhance air travel options for our community’s residents,” said Jake Rouch, president & CEO of the Erie Regional Chamber and Growth Partnership. “Through the support of public and private partners, the Fly Erie Fund, LLC was able to enhance Breeze’s confidence in bringing their world-class service to Erie. We are excited to welcome Breeze.”
Breeze also boasts seamless booking, no change or cancellation fees up to 60 minutes prior to departure, up to 24 months of reusable flight credit, and customized flight features, such as complimentary family seating, delivered via an easy-to-use app.
Erie will now be the airline’s fourth city served in Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, Lancaster, and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.