Punta Cana, Dominican Republic – U.S.-based low-cost carrier Breeze Airways has officially announced its entry into the international market after receiving certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a U.S. Flag Carrier, a designation that authorizes the airline to operate flights beyond American borders.
With this new status, the airline is launching its first three international destinations: Cancún (Mexico), Montego Bay (Jamaica), and Punta Cana (Dominican Republic).
Punta Cana Among First International Destinations
Beginning in the winter season of 2026, Breeze Airways will offer seasonal nonstop flights connecting Punta Cana International Airport with six U.S. airports. The company confirmed that tickets are already available through its direct sales channels, though schedules remain subject to final approval from the respective governments.
For Punta Cana tourism, this expansion represents a major boost, giving American travelers more nonstop connectivity to the Caribbean’s leading vacation hub and creating new opportunities for both tourism and investment.
CEO Highlights Milestone Achievement
David Neeleman, founder and CEO of Breeze Airways — who also co-founded JetBlue, Azul, and WestJet — described the U.S. Flag Carrier certification as a “huge accomplishment” achieved after three years of preparation. He emphasized that Breeze aims to bring the same comfort, affordability, and seamless travel experience from its domestic routes into its new Caribbean network.
Expansion to Create New Jobs in the U.S.
As part of its growth strategy, Breeze Airways will also open a crew base in Raleigh-Durham (RDU) during the first quarter of 2026, creating more than 200 jobs in the region and supporting its expanding U.S. and Caribbean operations.
For Punta Cana, this means greater accessibility for American travelers, increased tourist arrivals, and stronger positioning as one of the top Caribbean destinations for U.S. vacationers in 2026 and beyond.
