February 3, 2026

Charleston Takes Flight with New Nonstop Breeze Airways Route

Charleston, SC, February 3, 2026

Breeze Airways has announced new nonstop flights connecting Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Charleston, South Carolina. Set to begin on May 6, 2026, these flights will bolster local tourism and business opportunities, reflecting Charleston’s growing economy. The twice-weekly service aims to provide affordable travel options, with initial one-way fares starting at $49. This move underscores the increasing demand for direct air service in underserved markets and highlights Charleston’s appeal as a key destination for both leisure and business travelers.

Charleston, SC

Charleston Takes Flight: New Nonstop Route Boosts Lowcountry Connectivity

Charleston’s vibrant economy and appeal as a premier destination are receiving another significant boost with the announcement of new nonstop air service. Breeze Airways, an innovative carrier known for connecting underserved markets, is launching direct flights from Atlantic City, New Jersey, to Charleston, South Carolina. This development promises to enhance regional connectivity, bolster the Charleston County economy, and further solidify the Lowcountry’s position as a hub for both business and leisure travel, reflecting the positive outcomes when private enterprise identifies and serves market needs.

The addition of this new route highlights a continued trend of strategic growth and entrepreneurial spirit within the aviation sector, offering more choices for travelers and fostering increased visitation to the Holy City. Such expanded access is often a catalyst for local businesses, from hospitality to retail, demonstrating how streamlined travel can directly translate into tangible economic benefits and job creation for South Carolina entrepreneurs.

Breeze Airways Touches Down in Charleston

Breeze Airways announced on January 28, 2026, the launch of nonstop flights from Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) to Charleston, South Carolina (CHS), and Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (RDU). The service to Charleston is scheduled to commence on May 6, 2026. These flights will operate twice weekly, specifically on Wednesdays and Saturdays, providing convenient options for both business and leisure travelers. Introductory one-way fares for the Charleston route will begin at $49, making travel more accessible and affordable.

A Vision for Underserved Markets

Founded in 2021 by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, Breeze Airways has carved a niche by focusing on connecting “underserved” mid-sized markets with nonstop flights. This strategic approach bypasses larger, often congested airline hubs, leading to shorter overall travel times for passengers. The airline primarily targets leisure travelers, emphasizing convenience, affordability, and a “Seriously Nice” customer experience. Breeze Airways positions itself as a “premium major low-cost carrier,” differentiating its offerings from traditional discounters by including perks like first-class seating options (Breeze Ascent) on many of its flights, flexible booking choices, and complimentary family seating. This model illustrates how innovative private sector solutions can enhance consumer choice and market efficiency.

Atlantic City: A New Gateway to the Lowcountry

The introduction of Breeze Airways marks a significant development for Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), as it becomes the third major carrier operating from the airport, alongside Spirit Airlines and Allegiant Air. Notably, these new Breeze routes will offer ACY its only current direct flights to destinations outside of Florida, excluding a bus service connection to Philadelphia. This expansion signals ACY’s transition from a limited-service airport to a more competitive regional hub, which is anticipated to enhance regional connectivity and boost tourism, thereby generating a broader economic impact.

Charleston’s Sustained Economic Momentum

Charleston’s economy continues to demonstrate robust growth, with tourism playing a pivotal role. In 2024, the greater Charleston area’s tourism industry generated an impressive total economic impact of $14.03 billion, representing a 7% increase from the previous year. This sector alone supports 54,900 jobs, marking the highest employment figures ever recorded for the industry. Overall, Lowcountry economic growth has been substantial over the past decade, with private sector wages seeing a 106% increase compared to a national average of 70%. The region’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded by 103%, reaching $68 billion, significantly outpacing the national growth rate of approximately 65% over the same period. Furthermore, employment in the Charleston metro area experienced a 27% jump, with roughly 430,000 people now employed, nearly double the national growth rate of around 15%. Charleston International Airport itself contributes significantly, with an $11 billion economic impact on the state of South Carolina. These figures underscore the resilience and dynamism of the Charleston SC business environment.

Expanding Horizons: Raleigh-Durham’s Growth

The new routes also extend to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, with nonstop service beginning June 11, 2026, on Thursdays and Sundays. One-way fares for this route will start from $39. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is a significant economic engine for its region, contributing an estimated $17 billion in economic impact in 2023 and supporting over 85,000 local and regional jobs. In 2023, RDU managed a record 14.5 million passengers, further illustrating the vibrant economic activity and connectivity of the area. This expansion by Breeze Airways aligns with the growth trajectory of key Southern markets, fostering increased travel and economic interplay between these regions.

The Future of Regional Air Travel and Economic Development

The expansion of air travel options through carriers like Breeze Airways exemplifies how market-driven solutions can effectively meet consumer demand and fuel economic development. By connecting previously underserved routes, these airlines create new avenues for tourism and business, encouraging investment and local prosperity without heavy-handed government intervention. The ability of Charleston and Raleigh-Durham to attract such service is a testament to their strong economies and appealing communities, driven by the collective efforts of Charleston small business owners, residents, and visionary leaders. Explore Charleston anticipates continued steady growth, noting that travel intentions are currently higher than they have been in a year, with more people planning to travel in 2025.

As these new flights take off, they offer not just increased convenience but also an opportunity for greater cultural exchange and economic synergy between diverse regions. We encourage our readers to explore these new travel options and continue supporting the local businesses that are the backbone of Charleston’s thriving economy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When do Breeze Airways’ nonstop flights from Atlantic City to Charleston begin?

Breeze Airways will launch nonstop flights from Atlantic City International Airport to Charleston, South Carolina, starting May 6, 2026.

What days of the week will flights to Charleston operate?

The nonstop flights to Charleston will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

What is the starting fare for the Charleston route?

Introductory one-way fares for the Charleston service will start at $49.

When do the new nonstop flights from Atlantic City to Raleigh-Durham start?

Nonstop flights from Atlantic City International Airport to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, will begin on June 11, 2026.

What are the operating days for the Raleigh-Durham flights?

The Raleigh-Durham flights will operate twice weekly, on Thursdays and Sundays.

What is the starting fare for the Raleigh-Durham route?

Introductory one-way fares for the Raleigh-Durham service will start from $39.

What is Breeze Airways’ business model?

Breeze Airways focuses on connecting “underserved” mid-sized markets with nonstop flights, bypassing larger hubs for shorter travel times, and targets leisure travelers.

What is the economic impact of tourism in the greater Charleston area?

In 2024, tourism in the greater Charleston area had a total economic impact of $14.03 billion, increasing by 7% from the previous year.

What is the economic impact of Charleston International Airport on the state of South Carolina?

Charleston International Airport has an $11 billion economic impact on the state of South Carolina.

What was the economic impact of Raleigh-Durham International Airport in 2023?

Raleigh-Durham International Airport had a $17 billion economic impact in 2023, supporting over 85,000 local and regional jobs.

Key Features of Breeze Airways’ New Routes

Feature	Charleston, SC (CHS)	Raleigh-Durham, NC (RDU)
Origin Airport	Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)	Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)
Service Start Date	May 6, 2026	June 11, 2026
Frequency	Twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays)	Twice weekly (Thursdays and Sundays)
Introductory One-Way Fares	From $49	From $39
Airline Business Model Focus	Connecting underserved mid-sized markets, bypassing large hubs, targeting leisure travelers, offering a “Seriously Nice” experience with affordable fares and flexible options.
Economic Impact (Local/State-level)	Tourism: $14.03 Billion (2024, greater Charleston area) CHS Airport: $11 Billion (State of South Carolina)	RDU Airport: $17 Billion (2023, region)