Atlantic City, January 29, 2026
Breeze Airways has announced a new nonstop flight service from Atlantic City International Airport to Charleston, South Carolina, starting May 6, 2026. This expansion marks Breeze’s third offering from ACY and aims to enhance connectivity and economic growth between these regions. With introductory one-way fares starting at $49 and flights scheduled twice a week, this route promises to boost both leisure and business travel. The airline’s focus on underserved markets signifies a commitment to improving regional connectivity and supporting local economies.
Atlantic City has recently seen a significant development in its regional air travel landscape, with Breeze Airways announcing new service from Atlantic City International Airport (ACY). This expansion includes a direct connection that will undoubtedly resonate with residents and businesses in the Lowcountry: a new nonstop route to Charleston, South Carolina. This strategic move by Breeze Airways, a carrier known for its innovative approach to connecting underserved markets, highlights a broader trend of entrepreneurial spirit in the aviation sector, fostering economic growth through enhanced connectivity.
The addition of Breeze Airways as the third airline offering year-round flights from Atlantic City International Airport marks a notable moment for the region. For Charleston, this new route further solidifies its position as a dynamic travel destination and an important hub in Breeze’s network, promising to invigorate both leisure and business travel between these two vibrant cities. This expansion serves as a testament to the power of private investment and strategic route development in driving local and regional economies.
Charleston Gains New Direct Link to Atlantic City
Beginning May 6, 2026, travelers will be able to enjoy twice-weekly nonstop flights between Atlantic City and Charleston International Airport (CHS). These flights, scheduled for Wednesdays and Saturdays, will offer introductory one-way fares starting from $49, making travel between these destinations more accessible and affordable. This new connection is particularly significant for Charleston SC business and tourism, opening up new avenues for visitors from the southern New Jersey and Philadelphia regions to experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and growing economic opportunities of the Lowcountry.
Beyond Charleston, Breeze Airways will also launch nonstop service from Atlantic City to Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina, starting June 11, 2026. Additionally, a BreezeThru service to Tampa, Florida, will commence on the same date, providing a convenient one-stop travel option.
Breeze Airways’ Entrepreneurial Model Takes Flight
Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, who also founded JetBlue Airways, Breeze Airways launched its operations in 2021 with a distinctive business model. The airline focuses on providing nonstop service between what it identifies as “underserved” mid-sized markets, bypassing larger, more congested airline hubs. This approach allows for more efficient travel times and often more affordable fares, appealing primarily to leisure travelers.
Charleston has been an integral part of Breeze Airways’ strategy from its inception. The airline chose Charleston as one of its initial destinations and a hub city, launching its inaugural flight from Charleston, SC in May 2021. At that time, Breeze introduced service to 11 markets from Charleston, with seven of these being entirely new routes for Charleston International Airport. This early commitment underscored the airline’s belief in Charleston’s potential as a travel and economic nexus, showcasing the entrepreneurial foresight to identify and capitalize on market gaps.
Boosting Lowcountry Economic Growth Through Connectivity
The introduction of new air routes, particularly those connecting regional airports, is a well-documented catalyst for Lowcountry economic growth. Increased accessibility through regional airports like Charleston International stimulates business, facilitates the movement of goods and services, and drives productivity. This enhanced connectivity is vital for fostering entrepreneurship and supporting existing small businesses. Regional air travel improves overall connectivity, which in turn boosts trade and tourism, leading to job creation and aiding local businesses.
For Charleston County economy, the direct Atlantic City route is poised to attract new visitors, supporting local hotels, restaurants, retail, and attractions. It also offers Charleston residents and businesses a more convenient option for travel to the Northeast, potentially fostering new commercial links and personal connections. This kind of private-sector innovation, driven by companies like Breeze Airways, plays a crucial role in expanding opportunities and fostering a vibrant marketplace, often without the need for extensive governmental intervention. The airline’s focus on stimulating demand in previously underserved city pairs demonstrates a proactive approach to market development.
The Benefits of Strategic Air Service Expansion
Breeze Airways’ operational model emphasizes efficiency and guest satisfaction, utilizing smaller, less congested airports and prioritizing point-to-point service. This allows for quicker transit times from curb to gate, enhancing the overall travel experience. The airline’s modern fleet, including the fuel-efficient Airbus A220 aircraft, contributes to its cost-effective operations, which can translate into more affordable fares for consumers. The success of such a model highlights how market-driven solutions can deliver tangible benefits to communities by providing services that traditional larger carriers might overlook.
The expansion into Atlantic City, and the new connection to Charleston, exemplifies how targeted airline investments can significantly strengthen regional connectivity. This increased connectivity is expected to drive long-term economic impact, not just for Atlantic City, but also for its connected destinations like Charleston. By reducing travel friction and offering competitive pricing, airlines like Breeze empower individuals and businesses, contributing to the overall dynamism of regional economies and supporting the resilience of Charleston small business proprietors and South Carolina entrepreneurs.
The addition of the Atlantic City route to Breeze Airways’ growing network from Charleston is a clear win for local travelers and the wider Charleston SC business community. It underscores the importance of flexible and responsive private enterprises in enhancing connectivity and stimulating economic activity. As Charleston continues its upward trajectory, such strategic links are invaluable for sustaining growth and ensuring the Lowcountry remains an attractive destination for both residents and visitors.
We encourage our readers to explore these new travel opportunities and continue supporting the innovative businesses that contribute to our region’s prosperity. Staying engaged in Charleston’s economic future means recognizing how improved infrastructure and connectivity, often driven by entrepreneurial ventures, lay the groundwork for a thriving community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new service is Breeze Airways adding from Atlantic City International Airport?
Breeze Airways is adding new nonstop service from Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) to Charleston, South Carolina (CHS), and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). It is also introducing BreezeThru service to Tampa, Florida.
When do the new flights between Atlantic City and Charleston, SC begin?
Nonstop service between Atlantic City and Charleston, South Carolina, will begin on May 6, 2026.
How often will flights operate between Atlantic City and Charleston?
Flights between Atlantic City and Charleston, South Carolina, will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
What is the business model of Breeze Airways?
Breeze Airways focuses on connecting “underserved” mid-sized markets with nonstop flights, targeting leisure travelers and offering affordable fares. The airline emphasizes efficiency, point-to-point service, and operates from smaller, less congested airports.
How does new airline service impact local economies like Charleston’s?
New airline service, particularly in regional airports, improves connectivity, boosts trade and tourism, supports infrastructure growth, fosters entrepreneurship, stimulates business, facilitates movement of goods and services, drives productivity, creates jobs, and aids local businesses.
Key Features of Breeze Airways’ New Atlantic City Service
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Airline | Breeze Airways |
| Origin Airport | Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) |
| Charleston Service Start Date | May 6, 2026 |
| Charleston Route Frequency | Twice weekly (Wednesdays and Saturdays) |
| Introductory Fares to Charleston | Starting from $49 one-way |
| Other New Routes from ACY | Nonstop to Raleigh-Durham (RDU), BreezeThru to Tampa (TPA) |
| Breeze Business Model | Focus on underserved mid-sized markets, point-to-point service, affordable fares |
| Impact on Local Economies | Improved connectivity, boosted tourism and trade, job creation, support for local businesses |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Connects to Drive Local Business Innovation
Breeze Airways Launches New Nonstop Flights to Charleston
McMaster’s Final State of the State: Charting South Carolina’s Future
Price Controls Threaten SC Economy & Health
Lowcountry Leads as NC Metros Stall
Breeze Touches Down: New Flights Boost Regional Connectivity
Breeze Airways Expands Travel Options from Charleston to the Jersey Shore
Charleston’s Air Routes Experience Change Amid Expansion
New Flight Routes: A Blueprint for Charleston’s Economic Soar
Charleston Airport Soars, Propelling Economic Growth
