Charleston Soars with New Direct Route to Cancun

Charleston, SC, January 17, 2026

Breeze Airways is set to launch a nonstop flight service from Charleston International Airport to Cancun International Airport, enhancing connectivity and boosting the local economy. The route represents Breeze Airways’ first international destination from Charleston and showcases the city’s growing prominence in travel. Starting January 17, 2026, the seasonal flights will operate every Saturday, presenting new opportunities for tourism and trade.

Charleston Soars: New Direct Route to Cancun Signals Economic Boost

Charleston, SC’s vibrant economy is set to receive another significant uplift as Breeze Airways prepares to launch its new nonstop flight service from Charleston International Airport (CHS) to Cancun International Airport (CUN) in Mexico. This new route represents a testament to entrepreneurial vision and strategic private sector investment, expanding accessibility for local residents and opening new avenues for tourism and trade. Such developments underscore Charleston’s growing prominence as a hub for both domestic and international travel, fostering economic growth and opportunity for local businesses and the wider community.

The introduction of this direct international service reflects a dynamic marketplace where innovation and consumer demand drive progress. For South Carolina entrepreneurs and small businesses, enhanced connectivity often translates into broader customer bases, increased visitor spending, and diversified economic activity. This latest move by Breeze Airways, a company known for its unique approach to air travel, exemplifies how strategic investments in infrastructure and service can yield substantial benefits for regional economies like Charleston County.

Connecting Charleston to the Caribbean Coast

Starting January 17, 2026, Breeze Airways will offer seasonal nonstop flights every Saturday from Charleston International Airport to Cancun International Airport. This marks a significant milestone, as it is Breeze Airways’ first international destination from Charleston and Charleston’s inaugural nonstop connection to Cancun, Mexico. This new service also represents the third international route available from Charleston International Airport. Charleston was among the original cities where Breeze Airways first launched its service in May 2021, establishing deep roots within the community.

Breeze Airways’ Innovative Business Model Takes Flight

Breeze Airways operates on a “Nice Low-Cost Carrier” (NLCC) model, which aims to combine affordability with enhanced amenities, distinguishing itself within the competitive airline industry. The airline focuses on establishing direct flights from markets that have been historically underserved by larger carriers, often utilizing secondary airports. This strategy, emphasizing cost efficiency and thoughtful route planning, enables Breeze to provide more accessible and convenient travel options.

The airline’s financial performance highlights the success of its innovative approach. Breeze Airways achieved its first full quarter of operating profit in the fourth quarter of 2024, demonstrating the viability of its business model. For the entire year of 2024, the airline reported revenues exceeding $680 million, marking a substantial 78% increase compared to 2023. This growth underscores the potential for new entrants in the market who prioritize efficiency and customer value. Breeze Airways was also certified by the FAA as a U.S. Flag Carrier earlier in 2025, a distinction not granted to a new airline in over a decade (Nationwide).

Economic Momentum for the Lowcountry

The introduction of new international flight routes is a powerful catalyst for economic expansion in the Lowcountry. Charleston’s tourism industry experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, generating more than $14 billion in economic impact, which represents a 7.1% increase from 2023. This impressive growth was supported by approximately 7.9 million visitors to the greater Charleston area in 2024, a 1.2% increase from the previous year.

Moreover, the average expenditure per adult per trip rose by 5.5% in 2024, reaching an average of $1,105, indicating that Charleston is successfully attracting higher-value visitors. Tourism contributes significantly to the local economy, accounting for 23.5% of all sales in the region in 2024. The Charleston International Airport itself recorded its highest volume to date in 2024, serving an estimated 6.29 million passengers. The airport’s growing connectivity is a key factor in attracting new businesses and supporting existing ones, demonstrating aviation’s importance to economic performance.

Enhanced Global Connectivity and Infrastructure

Charleston, recognized as South Carolina’s most populous city and its sole international airport, continues to expand its global reach. With 25 routes in Summer 2025, Breeze Airways stands as Charleston’s leading operator in terms of network breadth. The airport now offers nonstop flights to 55 airports for Summer 2025, including international destinations like Bermuda and Toronto, in addition to the newly announced Cancun service.

Further enhancing the ease of international travel, South Carolina’s first permanent Global Entry Enrollment Center officially opened at Charleston International Airport in late September. This facility streamlines the reentry process for international travelers, reflecting a proactive approach to facilitating global connections and supporting efficient travel for both leisure and business. Increased direct air connectivity is associated with gains in GDP per capita and job creation (Nationwide). It fosters trade, tourism, and talent mobility, which are crucial for a thriving economy.

Looking Ahead: Supporting a Robust Future

The launch of Breeze Airways’ new route to Cancun is more than just an additional flight; it is a clear indicator of Charleston’s enduring appeal and its capacity for sustained economic development. By championing entrepreneurial innovation and embracing strategic private sector partnerships, Charleston continues to build a robust and interconnected economy. Supporting local businesses and engaging with initiatives that enhance connectivity are vital steps in ensuring a prosperous future for all in Charleston.

We encourage our readers to explore the growing travel opportunities from Charleston International Airport and to continue supporting the local businesses that benefit from our expanding economic landscape. Your engagement helps solidify Charleston’s position as a thriving center for commerce and community.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new international route being launched from Charleston International Airport?

Breeze Airways is launching a new nonstop flight service from Charleston International Airport (CHS) to Cancun International Airport (CUN) in Mexico.

When will the new Charleston to Cancun flights begin?

The new route is scheduled to begin on January 17, 2026.

How often will flights operate on the new Charleston to Cancun route?

Flights will operate once a week, specifically on Saturdays.

What is the significance of this new route for Breeze Airways?

This new route marks Breeze Airways’ first international destination from Charleston.

What is the significance of this new route for Charleston International Airport?

This new route marks Charleston’s inaugural nonstop connection to Cancun, Mexico, and is the third international route offered from Charleston International Airport.

What is Breeze Airways’ business model?

Breeze Airways operates on a “Nice Low-Cost Carrier” (NLCC) model, focusing on offering affordable direct flights from underserved markets, blending affordability with premium amenities.

What was the economic impact of tourism in the greater Charleston area in 2024?

Tourism in the greater Charleston area generated a record $14 billion in economic impact in 2024.

How many passengers did Charleston International Airport handle in 2024?

Charleston International Airport served an estimated 6.29 million passengers in 2024, its highest volume to date.

What percentage of all sales in the Charleston region was attributable to tourism in 2024?

Tourism accounted for 23.5% of all sales in the Charleston region in 2024.

What other new travel infrastructure is available at Charleston International Airport?

South Carolina’s first permanent Global Entry Enrollment Center opened at Charleston International Airport in late September.

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Breeze Airways Launches New Route from Charleston to Cancún

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