Breeze Airways to Become Largest Carrier at Myrtle Beach Airport with 11 New Routes

Key points

• Breeze Airways will add 11 new nonstop destinations to MYR, including Boston, Buffalo, and Columbus, starting in 2027.
• The expansion brings Breeze’s total nonstop destinations at MYR to 25, making it the airport’s largest carrier.
• The first new route, to Latrobe, Pennsylvania, begins on February 9, 2027, with fares starting at $49 one-way.
• The announcement follows the shutdown of Spirit Airlines in May 2026, which had previously held a significant market share at MYR.
• Breeze has more than doubled its seats and flights at MYR since its initial arrival in February 2024.

Background

Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) experienced a significant shift in its airline landscape following the closure of Spirit Airlines in May 2026. Spirit had been a major carrier at MYR for nearly 30 years, though its market share had declined from approximately 50% in 2019 to around 23% in 2025 due to deliberate diversification efforts by the airport post-pandemic. Breeze Airways entered the MYR market in February 2024 with a single destination and has since expanded its presence, aiming to provide affordable options for residents and tourists alike.

How outlets are covering it

While all sources confirm the 11 new routes and the 25-destination total, they emphasize different aspects. The Myrtle Beach Sun News highlights the affordability and the filling of the gap left by Spirit. WMBF focuses on the economic benefits, including job creation and tourism revenue, and notes that Breeze will become the dominant carrier. The Portland Press Herald specifically details the transition from a one-stop to a nonstop route for Portland, Maine, starting in May 2027. WPDE underscores the community impact and the fact that Breeze has more than doubled its seats and flights since 2024. There is no disagreement on the core facts, but the emphasis varies between economic impact, market dominance, and specific route details.

Why it matters

The expansion of Breeze Airways at MYR is significant for the local economy and tourism industry. By becoming the largest carrier at the airport, Breeze provides more affordable and diverse flight options for residents and visitors, potentially boosting tourism revenue and business opportunities. The move also helps mitigate the impact of Spirit Airlines' closure, ensuring continued connectivity for the Myrtle Beach area.

What to watch

The first new route, to Latrobe, Pennsylvania, will begin on February 9, 2027. Other routes will follow in May and July 2027. Breeze expects increased traffic during the peak summer season but will also offer year-round service on some routes. The airport and local tourism officials anticipate that these new routes will attract more group travel and conventions to the area.