Breeze Airways Begins Service From Yeager Airport

The much-anticipated inaugural flight celebration for Breeze Airways got off to a bumpy start Wednesday at West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW). 

West Virginia’s newest low cost air carrier arrived on time at Charleston’s Yeager International Airport at 8:35 a.m. Wednesday morning before departing for its first trip to Orlando. 

Weather issues, however, delayed the plane’s return to Charleston for a planned celebratory media event slated to include the governor, Breeze representatives and other VIPs. 

When the inaugural inbound flight pulled up to Gate B2 it was welcomed with a ceremonial water cannon salute by the 130th AW Fire Department.

When the aircraft doors opened passengers and crew were treated to a party at the gate featuring balloons and refreshments that included a decorative cake and giveaways.

Airport Director and CEO Dominique Ranieri said the addition of Breeze Airways marks a new era in flight service for West Virginians. 

“CRW is thrilled that Breeze will begin nonstop service today to Charleston, South Carolina and Orlando,” Ranieri said. “CRW continues to be grateful for the support of everyone who has made today possible, starting with Gov. Jim Justice, Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston.”

The Kanawha County Commission offered the following statement, “Kanawha County is thrilled that Breeze is already expanding flights from CRW. It’s proof that the innovative partnership between the State of West Virginia, Kanawha County, and the City of Charleston is working. Great things are happening in Kanawha County!”

Breeze Airways will offer direct flights to Charleston, South Carolina and Orlando, Florida. The new routes were introduced at a special introductory fare of $59 and $49 for a one-way ticket. The carrier added two extra flights to its Orlando route with summer flight service scheduled Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday through August 15. 

After that date, the carrier will revert to two weekly flights.

The airline plans to add bigger Airbus 220-300 aircraft that can carry more passengers with first class seating and more leg space. 

Three more flights are expected to be added to New York City and the West Coast over the next two years.

West Virginia International Yeager Airport is an underwriter of West Virginia Public Broadcasting.