Are Competitors Trying to Squash Breeze?
I can't blame them if they are. Of all the LCCs, Breeze probably has the most potential.
Dear readers,
Long ago, I gave up reporting on new routes, because regardless of the hype an airline’s PR can build about connecting dots on a map, I don’t think a few new routes matter all that much.1 But when I think certain new routes give us a glimpse into the competitive machinations of the airline industry, I make an exception.
That is how I found myself last month on a video call with Breeze chief commercial officer Lukas Johnson, who delighted in explaining his March 2026 expansion into Burbank (my home airport) with four new routes to Arcata-Eureka, Pasco, Eugene, and Provo.
I know you may think that’s some small-ball shit, but I think it matters more when we consider two factors. First, Breeze — which does not currently fly to Burbank — will enter it less than four months after Avelo — its close rival and fellow 2021 startup airline — departs the West Coast entirely. And second, Alaska is aggressively moving to thwart Breeze, the latest big carrier (following American and United) seeking to target the LCC. Of all the discount airlines, I think Breeze is the only one that strikes real fear in legacy competitors.