May 31, 2023
Today, Breeze Airways and West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) celebrated the arrival of Breeze Airways, the newest air carrier to offer nonstop service to Orlando, FL and Charleston, SC. This highly anticipated event marks a significant milestone for the airport and the region, enhancing travel options and connectivity for our valued passengers.
Breeze’s launch in Charleston adds two more locations passengers can reach via convenient nonstop flights from CRW, with plans to offer additional nonstop routes. The low-cost carrier brought in their Embraer E195 aircraft featuring 118 seats. In addition, the airline has ordered 80 brand-new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with options for 40 more.
“CRW is thrilled that Breeze will begin nonstop service today to Charleston, South Carolina and Orlando,” said Airport Director & CEO Dominique Ranieri. “CRW continues to be grateful for the support of everyone who has made today possible, starting with Governor Jim Justice, Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston.”
Passengers and crew were treated to a party at Gate B2 featuring balloons, cookies, a decorative cake, and giveaways. A media event at the gate featured comments Breeze Airways representatives, and airport leadership. The inaugural inbound flight from Charleston was given a ceremonial water cannon salute by the 130th AW Fire Department.
The Kanawha County Commission added 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!”
“The City of Charleston is excited to welcome Breeze Airways to CRW,” said Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin. “With more direct flights to our Capital City, we are better positioned to bring more visitors to experience all that Charleston and our region have to offer.”
Those wanting to book a flight from Charleston to Orlando or Charleston, South Carolina, can do so now at wwww.flybreeze.com or via the Breeze app.
May 24, 2023
The Summer travel season is upon us, and West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) is gearing up for a busy Memorial Day holiday weekend. As you prepare for your upcoming trip, it’s important to be aware of some valuable tips that will ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, following these guidelines will help you navigate CRW efficiently and make the most of your journey.
Arrive early to alleviate time constraints: To avoid any last-minute rushing and unnecessary stress, it’s highly recommended to arrive at CRW 60-90 minutes before your scheduled departure. This will allow ample time to check your bags, go through security screenings, and reach your gate without any hassles. By providing yourself with a comfortable buffer, you can begin your trip with a relaxed mindset.
Stay informed with your airline’s mobile app: Make use of technology to stay up-to-date with the latest information about your flight. Download your airline’s mobile app to receive real-time notifications regarding any changes in your flight status. This way, you can stay informed about delays, gate changes, or any other important updates. Checking your flight status before leaving for the airport will save you time and provide peace of mind.
Utilize the designated passenger pick-up areas: CRW offers a convenient twenty-minute waiting lot for those dropping off or picking up passengers. This designated area ensures a smooth flow of traffic and minimizes congestion in front of the main terminal. Avoid parking along Airport Road or in front of the terminal, as it may cause unnecessary delays and inconvenience to other travelers.
Familiarize yourself with TSA guidelines: To ensure a hassle-free security screening process, it’s essential to be aware of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines regarding carry-on items. If you have any questions about what you can or cannot bring through the security checkpoint, don’t hesitate to reach out to TSA for clarification. Additionally, consider signing up for TSA PreCheck to expedite your screening process and enjoy a more efficient travel experience.
Check out new nonstop flights from CRW: Plan a trip to Charleston, SC, or Orlando, FL, this Summer with Breeze Airways to these popular sunny destinations. Whether you’re seeking the historic charm of Charleston or the enchantment of Orlando’s theme parks, these new nonstop flights provide convenient options for your summer travel plans.
As you embark on your summer adventures, implementing these tips will undoubtedly enhance your travel experience at CRW. Arriving early, staying informed through your airline’s mobile app, utilizing the designated passenger pick-up areas, and familiarizing yourself with TSA guidelines will ensure a stress-free journey. Remember, the goal is to make the most of your trip by starting it on the right foot. So, pack your bags, keep these suggestions in mind, and get ready to enjoy a memorable and hassle-free travel experience from CRW.
Apr 20, 2023
Just three weeks after Breeze Airways tickets went on sale, West Virginia International Yeager Airport’s newest low-cost carrier has already increased the number of weekly flights to Orlando, Florida for summer travel. Ticket sales to Orlando have been one of the company’s strongest route launches to date.
Due to stronger than expected sales, Breeze has added two additional weekly flights from CRW to Orlando, Florida (MCO). The flights will now operate to MCO on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, through August 15 when it will revert to two flights weekly. Additionally, the airline plans to fly larger planes, Airbus 220-300 aircraft with 137 seats, including first-class seating and more legroom options for passengers. Tickets are available immediately.
“We couldn’t be happier with our launch from West Virginia,” said Founder and CEO David Neeleman. “As flights fill up, Breeze always looks to grow, adding flights and destinations whenever possible.”
These flights are a part of a larger partnership announced between West Virginia and Breeze on March 28, 2023. The partnership between Breeze, the state’s Department of Tourism, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston will provide direct air service between West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) and at least five cities over the next two years. New, nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) are set to begin May 31, 2023, with at least three more destinations, including New York City, slated to be added over the next 24 months. This innovative partnership comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport.
“We are thrilled to see the early bookings for Orlando and receive notification of this expansion before the flights even begin,” said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. “We are very excited to see this partnership taking off. I’m really looking forward to seeing those blue planes touching down at CRW with new folks just waiting to explore Almost Heaven, West Virginia.”
“CRW is very excited to welcome Breeze to our market in May,” said Airport Director & CEO Dominique Ranieri. “The fact that the Breeze is already seeing strong demand and adding frequency means that our passengers are excited, as well.”
Breeze was launched in 2021 by JetBlue founder and former CEO David Neeleman with a mission to fill a key gap in America’s air-travel offerings: efficient, affordable, direct flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. It was recently named one of the best domestic airlines in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. Breeze offers travelers the option of three price levels, “Nice,” “Nicer,” and “Nicest,” the latter of which includes a first-class seat on the airline’s Airbus A220 aircraft.
Breeze has grown rapidly since its founding, now with 147 nonstop routes between 36 cities in 22 states nationally. The airline has ordered 80 brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with options for 40 more.
Those wanting to book a flight from Charleston to Orlando or Charleston, South Carolina, can do so now at www.flybreeze.com or via the Breeze app. To access the media kit, click here.
Mar 28, 2023
CHARLESTON, WV – Gov. Jim Justice today announced a partnership with the successful new low cost carrier Breeze Airways to connect West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) with at least five cities over the next two years. New nonstop flights to Orlando, Florida (MCO) and Charleston, South Carolina (CHS) will begin May 31, 2023. The new routes are now on sale at introductory fares of $59 and $49, respectively, one way. At least three more destinations, including New York City, are slated to be added over the next 24 months.
This innovative partnership between the state, Kanawha County, and the City of Charleston comes after years of decline in available destinations from smaller airports around the country, including West Virginia International Yeager Airport. The flights announced today will more than double air connectivity to West Virginia’s capital.
“I’ve said over and over that our airports in West Virginia are our lifeblood,” Gov. Justice said. “They fuel our economy, bring in tourism, and their ripple effects are off-the-charts. CRW is absolutely knocking it out of the park, and it’s a testament to West Virginia’s resurgence as a top destination for tourism, and as the best place to live, work, and raise a family. I’m so proud to welcome Breeze Airways to Almost Heaven, because I know that they will find success here, but above all, they will find a new home among our hills.”
Breeze was launched in 2021 by JetBlue founder and former CEO David Neeleman with a mission to fill a key gap in America’s air-travel offerings: efficient, affordable, direct flights between secondary airports, bypassing hubs for shorter travel times. It was recently named one of the best domestic airlines in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure. Breeze offers travelers the option of three price levels, “Nice,” “Nicer,” and “Nicest,” the latter of which includes a first-class seat on the airline’s Airbus A220 aircraft.
“As we look to fill the gaps left by larger carriers in midsized markets, Charleston/Yeager is a great fit for Breeze’s business model,” David Neeleman, Breeze Airways’ Founder and CEO said. “With our new ‘Charleston to Charleston’ service, we’ll connect the West Virginia and South Carolina cities for the very first time, and our new nonstop to Orlando is also adding another currently unserved destination from CRW. We know the Almost Heaven community will enjoy Breeze’s affordability, flexibility, and our family friendly policies including free family seating.”
Breeze has grown rapidly since its founding, now with 145 nonstop routes between 36 cities in 22 states nationally. The airline has ordered 80 brand new Airbus A220-300 aircraft, with options for 40 more.
This summer, Breeze aircraft will be seen touching down in the Mountain State. The partnership includes adding three additional routes in the first two years, including potential service to New York City and the west coast.
The announcement follows several years of record-breaking tourism growth in West Virginia and a year in which the state was labeled a must-see tourism destination by publications such as Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast, Lonely Planet, Frommer’s, TIME, CNN, and USA Today.
“I’d like to thank the Governor for this bold commitment to air service in West Virginia,” Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby said. “At a time when airports across the nation are losing flights, he’s shown an unwavering commitment to ensuring continued growth in the state’s tourism industry. This partnership will not only provide better connectivity for residents but will make Almost Heaven, West Virginia more accessible to millions of new travelers. It’s truly a historic day.”
An expansion of this magnitude at West Virginia International Yeager Airport is unprecedented. Airport officials are excited about the long-term possibilities created by this new partnership.
“We are so excited to welcome Breeze Airways to West Virginia International Yeager Airport,” Airport Director & CEO, Dominique Ranieri said. “Breeze will provide nonstop flights to some of the Airport’s unserved and underserved markets at low fares, offering additional travel options to our region. Thanks to this new partnership with the State of West Virginia, Kanawha County, and the City of Charleston, we look forward to growing with Breeze Airways.”
“Air service is economic development,” Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper said. “Congratulations to Governor Justice and Secretary Ruby, for what will be known as a signature moment for air service in the state of West Virginia. The Kanawha County Commission is tremendously proud of West Virginia International Yeager Airport, our team, and specifically the dynamic leadership under the direction of Dominique Ranieri.”
“The announcement of Breeze Airways joining CRW as a new carrier is exciting,” Kanawha County Commissioner Ben Salango said. “CRW continues to grow, and this new partnership would not have happened without the assistance of Governor Justice and Secretary Ruby with the WV Office of Tourism. This announcement is pivotal in providing expanded service to those who fly in and out of CRW daily.”
“Kanawha County is excited to welcome Breeze Airways to the CRW airport,” Kanawha County Commissioner Lance Wheeler said. “This is a great economic development and will be instrumental in offering expanded airline services. The Kanawha County Commission is incredibly proud to work with Governor Justice, Secretary Ruby and the WV Office of tourism to continue to expand CRW.”
“Charleston is quickly becoming a destination for its diverse and growing arts and music scene, family-favorite events like the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta and FestivALL, sports tourism and leisure travel,” Charleston Mayor Amy Goodwin said. “Through this partnership with Breeze Airways, we have the opportunity to bring more folks to our Capital City and the region.”
Those wanting to book a flight from Charleston to Orlando or Charleston, South Carolina, can do so now at www.flybreeze.com or via the Breeze app.
Mar 22, 2023
West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) is pleased to announce the launch of a new children’s book “The Adventures of Hercules: A New Friend.” To celebrate, CRW is partnering with the Kanawha County Public Library (KCPL) to host a special Storytime and birthday party with Hercules himself joining the fun.
Guests of all ages are invited to join Hercules – the Airport Wildlife Patrol Canine – and his friends from the airport and library on Monday, March 27, 2023. Activities begin at 5 pm at KCPL’s Main Library (123 Capitol Street, Charleston, WV) in Children’s Services.
Join us for a fun and interactive reading of “The Adventures of Hercules: A New Friend.” The event will include sharing library resources, cake, ice cream, activities, and photo opportunities with Hercules. Attendees will have a chance after the reading for a Q&A session and to purchase a copy of the book signed by Hercules!
“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to share “The Adventures of Hercules: A New Friend’ with children and families in Charleston,” said Dominique Ranieri, Airport Director & CEO. “The event will be a fun and engaging way for children to connect with Hercules and their hometown airport.”
“KCPL is honored to host Hercules and his friends at the library on his birthday,” said Denise Norris, Children’s Librarian. “Partnering with CRW to allow young readers to meet Hercules, learn about the work he does at the airport and in the community, and discover his new book is one of many ways we open new worlds of information.
Based on a true story, “The Adventures of Hercules: A New Friend” is a book about unexpected friendship and adventures, showing kindness, and paying attention. The beautiful, inclusive illustrations by Jim Melton take young readers behind the scenes at a busy airport and celebrate the diversity of humans and canines who work extra hard to make air travel special. The book is now available for purchase online at Amazon, the Airport gift shop, and in select bookstores nationwide.
In addition to introducing readers to books like “The Adventures of Hercules,” KCPL librarians offer free, fun, family-friendly programs for all ages. Planning is underway for the highly anticipated Summer Library Club (SLC), hosted at KCPL, from June 1 to July 31. In addition to helping young readers in particular keep reading skills sharp during summer break, SLC is designed to engage readers and their families with members of the community and foster a lifetime love of learning. For more information about SLC and the many other programs available, visit kcpls.org.
Mar 10, 2023
West Virginia International Yeager Airport to receive $964,648 in funding from the the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
West Virginia International Yeager Airport (CRW) is excited to announce that it has received $964,648 in funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This funding will be used to purchase new equipment that will help ensure safe and efficient operations for travelers. The equipment includes a snow broom to keep the airport serviceable during snow periods, a power sweeper to remove debris from the runway surface, and friction measuring equipment to maintain runway safety.
The funding was announced by U.S. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), members of the Senate Appropriations Committee. This funding was made available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
This will enable West Virginia International Yeager Airport to obtain equipment to assist with ensuring safe airport operations during weather events.
“CRW would like to thank U.S. Senator Manchin (D-WV), as well as Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and the members of the Senate Appropriations Committee, for their support of West Virginia International Yeager Airport and our efforts to improve operations and safety for our passengers. We look forward to continuing to provide safe and efficient travel options for the people of West Virginia,” said Airport Director & CEO, Dominique Ranieri.