State, Breeze Airways announce non-stop flights from Charleston to NYC – WV MetroNews

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — There are going to be direct flights from Charleston to the New York City area for the first time in 11 years.

Breeze Airways, Gov. Jim Justice and West Virginia International Yeager Airport announced the flights Wednesday. They’ll begin from CRW to Newark Liberty International Airport on Nov. 14.

“This partnership with Breeze Airways continues to exceed all expectations, and I’m thrilled that the airline is expanding its service to connect West Virginia with the New York area,” Justice said in a Wednesday morning news release. “Airports significantly contribute to our economy, enhance tourism, and make our state more reachable. They are gateways to and from West Virginia, offering the world a chance to experience the beauty of our state. I look forward to Breeze’s continued success in West Virginia and to welcoming all the new visitors who will visit our great state because of this historic partnership.”

Newark International is one of three airports that serve NYC, a train trip from the airport terminal to Penn Station in New York takes anywhere from 40 minutes to a little more than an hour. West Virginia International Yeager Airport Director Dominque Ranieri said they get a lot of requests for New York City flights.

“The New York City area is among the top destinations requested by our community, and now our travelers have even more reason to choose West Virginia International Yeager Airport,” Ranieri said. “This new route not only enhances access and flexibility for visitors to the New York City area but also offers expanded options for connecting to other destinations. Breeze Airways has been a tremendous addition to West Virginia, and we look forward to their continued growth at CRW.”

The state, CRW and Breeze began a partnership in March 2023. There are currently weekly flights to Orlando and seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach and Tampa.

“Charleston has been a really strong market for us over the last year and we continue to see more opportunities for growth,” Breeze Airways’ Founder and CEO David Neeleman said. “Now West Virginia guests can enjoy our affordable, elevated, and premium leisure service as they travel on the only nonstop flight from Charleston to New York.”

Flights to Newark will take place on Thursdays and Sundays with one-way beginning at $49.

State Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby said the flights will also offer opportunities for more people to come to West Virginia.

“The 20 million residents of America’s largest metropolitan area finally have direct access to America’s premier tourism destination,” Ruby said. “We can’t wait for more visitors coming to enjoy our world-class outdoor recreation and unforgettable natural beauty. Many thanks are due to Governor Justice, the Legislature, the Kanawha County Commission, and the City of Charleston for their continued partnership to promote West Virginia tourism.”