Home » Airline News In America » Breeze Airways Announces New Flights to Fort Lauderdale Offering Affordable Access to Florida’s Top Destinations
Published on
February 27, 2026
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Breeze Airways has announced that it will begin offering direct flights between Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP) and Fort Lauderdale, Florida, starting July 1, 2026. This new route marks a significant expansion for the low-cost airline in northeastern Pennsylvania, as it will become the airport’s only airline providing direct service to the Sunshine State.
New Route to Florida: Two Weekly Flights to Fort Lauderdale
Beginning July 1, Breeze will operate flights from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to Fort Lauderdale on Wednesdays and Saturdays, providing local travelers with the opportunity to visit one of Florida’s most popular destinations. The airline is kicking off this new service with a promotional fare of just $79 one way, but passengers must purchase their tickets by March 2 to take advantage of this offer for travel between July 1 and September 15, 2026.
This addition brings the total number of Florida destinations accessible through Breeze Airways from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to four, enhancing the connectivity between the region and key tourist hotspots in Florida.
Expanding Florida Access: Additional Flights Planned
In response to growing demand, Breeze Airways also plans to introduce additional flights to Fort Lauderdale, scheduled for Thursday and Sunday departures. However, these flights will include a layover at either Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, or Tampa, Florida. The connecting flights will start on July 2, 2026, although specific pricing for these flights has not been disclosed yet.
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This expansion will provide passengers with more flexibility and options when traveling to southern Florida, especially for those seeking convenient connections to Fort Lauderdale, a key entry point to Florida’s popular beaches, cruise ports, and warm weather destinations.
Breeze Airways’ Existing Florida Network
This new Fort Lauderdale route will complement Breeze’s current offerings to Florida. The airline already serves Fort Myers, Orlando, and Tampa, with several daily flights operating from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. Breeze currently offers four daily flights to Fort Myers on Mondays and Fridays, Orlando flights on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and Tampa services on Sundays and Thursdays.
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The airline had previously offered service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, but suspended the route in early January 2026. Breeze continues to focus on providing cost-effective travel options with a growing number of destinations in Florida and beyond.
Fort Lauderdale as a Gateway to Southern Florida
For travelers in northeastern Pennsylvania, the Fort Lauderdale route presents a convenient and affordable way to access not just Fort Lauderdale, but also nearby Miami. Fort Lauderdale International Airport is just about 30 miles from Miami, making it a strategic gateway for visitors wanting to explore both cities or take advantage of Florida’s famous cruise ports. Fort Lauderdale is home to Port Everglades, while PortMiami is just a short drive away, providing easy access to the state’s cruise terminals.
Breeze Airways’ decision to offer Fort Lauderdale flights also represents a valuable option for those seeking to enjoy the region’s famous beaches and vibrant city life. Whether it’s for a winter getaway, family vacation, or cruise departure, the new route allows travelers from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton to conveniently access southern Florida’s diverse offerings.
Air Travel Expansion in Wilkes-Barre/Scranton
BJ Teichman, Assistant Executive Director at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport, expressed excitement about the new flight offering. He emphasized the growing importance of Breeze Airways in the region, noting that the airline’s entry into the Florida market is a direct response to local demand for affordable travel options to southern destinations.
Teichman credited Beth Coslett, the airport’s director of flight service development, for her efforts in bringing this new service to fruition. He believes that the introduction of the Fort Lauderdale route will create direct connections from northeastern Pennsylvania to southern Florida, benefiting both leisure travelers and those seeking convenient cruise port access.
The Growing Appeal of Breeze Airways
Since Breeze Airways began operations from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport in January 2024, it has rapidly expanded its network, attracting more travelers looking for low-cost options. As one of the newest players in the U.S. airline market, Breeze has quickly established itself as a key provider of affordable, non-stop flights to Florida.
For the airport and the surrounding region, Breeze’s success represents an important opportunity for growth in air travel. The Fort Lauderdale flights will not only support tourism but also offer residents and businesses in northeastern Pennsylvania improved connectivity and travel options.
Additional Developments at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Airport
In other positive developments for the airport, a third daily United Airlines flight to Washington, D.C., will begin on March 6, 2026, providing even more choices for travelers flying out of Wilkes-Barre/Scranton. This addition further enhances the airport’s growing role as a key regional hub for both domestic and international connections.
Conclusion: A Boost for Local Travelers
Breeze Airways’ new direct flights to Fort Lauderdale from Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport represent an exciting development for the region. With affordable fares, increased flight options, and a direct route to one of Florida’s most popular destinations, this expansion provides travelers with a greater variety of choices for their vacations and business travel. For those looking to explore southern Florida or embark on a cruise, Breeze’s new flights offer a convenient and cost-effective way to reach their destination.
