East Tennessee is preparing for smoother skies as Breeze Airways announces the launch of direct flights from Tri-Cities Airport (TRI) to two major destinations: Orlando, Florida, and Washington, D.C., beginning in December 2025. The announcement is a significant step in improving regional air connectivity and positions the Tri-Cities area—comprising Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol—as a growing aviation hub in the Southeast.
Breeze Airways, a fast-growing U.S. airline founded in 2021 by JetBlue co-founder David Neeleman, is known for targeting underserved markets with direct, affordable flights. The new routes, set to operate twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays, will serve a growing demand from leisure and business travelers in East Tennessee.
A Major Win for Regional Connectivity
Until now, many East Tennessee residents were forced to drive hours to larger airports like Charlotte or Nashville for nonstop flights to major U.S. destinations. Breeze’s entry into the Tri-Cities market marks a significant shift by bringing two high-demand routes to the doorstep of East Tennessee travelers.
Orlando, with its year-round sunshine and attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, remains one of the top vacation destinations in the U.S. Meanwhile, Washington, D.C.—home to the nation’s capital, museums, and business centers—caters to professionals, government workers, and tourists alike.
The new service will offer East Tennessee residents greater flexibility for weekend trips, family getaways, and business travel. With flights scheduled at the beginning and end of the workweek, travelers can make the most of their time with reduced layovers and travel fatigue.
Breeze Airways: Disrupting the Traditional Airline Model
Breeze Airways has quickly gained attention in the aviation industry by focusing on point-to-point service from secondary airports—an approach that differentiates it from larger, hub-centric carriers. The airline aims to “make flying accessible and enjoyable again” by offering:
- Nonstop flights from smaller airports
- Flexible fare options (Nice, Nicer, and Nicest)
- Modern, fuel-efficient Airbus A220 aircraft
- Customizable add-ons including extra legroom, snacks, and checked bags
With more than 60 destinations already on its map and growing, Breeze’s model has proven successful in connecting regions traditionally overlooked by legacy carriers. Its foray into East Tennessee further solidifies its mission to serve community-centric airports with high-quality, direct flight options.
A Boost for the Local Economy
According to data from the U.S. Travel Association and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, Tennessee welcomed nearly 140 million travelers in 2023, with tourism generating more than $29 billion in economic impact. The addition of direct flights from Tri-Cities to top-tier destinations like Orlando and D.C. is expected to further bolster this upward trend.
Tri-Cities Airport officials noted that the Breeze announcement is part of a broader effort to attract airlines and increase route offerings. They see the partnership as a long-term investment in economic development and tourism for the region.
Local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and attractions are likely to benefit from increased visitor traffic. Improved air access also encourages corporate investment, relocations, and conference tourism in Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol.
Tri-Cities Airport’s Growth Trajectory
The Tri-Cities Airport Authority has been actively enhancing infrastructure and services to attract more carriers. With a strong focus on expanding its passenger terminal, improving security screening, and enhancing the traveler experience, the airport is increasingly being seen as a vital regional gateway.
The arrival of Breeze Airways validates those efforts and could encourage other low-cost carriers to consider similar partnerships. With increased passenger volumes, the airport may also explore further route expansions to other high-interest markets such as Chicago, Dallas, or New York.
Travel Made Easier and More Affordable
For the thousands of East Tennesseans who often drive to airports like Charlotte Douglas International or McGhee Tyson in Knoxville, Breeze offers a local alternative that saves time and money. The airline’s pricing model is also attractive: its base “Nice” fare competes with traditional low-cost carriers, while the premium “Nicest” option offers first-class seats on select aircraft.
Customers can book tickets through Breeze’s user-friendly app, which also provides real-time flight updates, mobile boarding passes, and simple trip management. For budget-conscious families, business professionals, and even first-time flyers, this combination of affordability and convenience is a game changer.
What This Means for the Future
The debut of Breeze Airways in Tri-Cities is more than a new airline launch—it’s a sign of changing travel dynamics in America. Regional airports are stepping into the spotlight as viable alternatives to crowded hubs, and travelers are responding positively.
For East Tennessee, the new nonstop routes open up opportunities for both outbound tourism and inbound visitation. The enhanced connectivity to Orlando and Washington, D.C., is a win for families, tourists, business travelers, and students alike.
Conclusion: East Tennessee Soars Higher with Breeze
As Breeze Airways prepares for its December 2025 launch from Tri-Cities Airport, the region stands at the threshold of a new travel era. With nonstop service to two of the most popular U.S. destinations and a schedule designed for convenience, East Tennessee is gaining the flight access it has long needed.
Whether you’re planning a magical trip to Orlando or heading to the capital for business, Breeze Airways is ready to make your journey smoother, faster, and more enjoyable—right from your hometown airport.
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