First Flights to Central America Spark Excitement (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Tampa, Florida – Breeze Airways revealed plans on March 17, 2026, to introduce two new international nonstop routes from Tampa International Airport, marking the carrier’s debut in Central America.[1][2] The airline will connect travelers directly to San Jose, Costa Rica, for the first time, while adding service to the popular Punta Cana resort area in the Dominican Republic. This expansion enhances options for Florida residents seeking tropical getaways without lengthy connections.[3]
First Flights to Central America Spark Excitement
Breeze Airways broke new territory by announcing nonstop service to San Jose, Costa Rica, a route absent from Tampa for more than 25 years.[2] Flights to the Costa Rican capital will commence on October 3, 2026, operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays. This development positions San Jose as Breeze’s fifth international destination overall.
David Neeleman, founder and CEO of Breeze Airways, highlighted the strategic importance of the move. “This announcement doubles the number of international destinations Breeze serves from Tampa, making it easy for our Guests to visit great places across Central America and the Caribbean,” he stated.[1] The carrier’s premium leisure focus promises comfortable travel at competitive prices.
Route Schedules and Booking Details
The Punta Cana route launches earlier, on July 2, 2026, with service on Thursdays and Sundays. Both routes feature two flights per week, catering to weekend travelers and those with flexible schedules. Introductory one-way fares start at $129 under a promotional No Flex Fare offer, available for bookings made through March 23, 2026, for travel up to January 12, 2027.[1][4]
Travelers can secure seats immediately on the Breeze Airways website. The fares include taxes and fees, though changes may trigger repricing and blackout dates apply.
| Destination | Airport Code | Start Date | Flight Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose, Costa Rica | SJO | October 3, 2026 | Wednesdays, Saturdays |
| Punta Cana, Dominican Republic | PUJ | July 2, 2026 | Thursdays, Sundays |
Breeze’s Broader International Push
Breeze Airways operates more than 300 nonstop routes across 87 cities in the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. Certification as a U.S. Flag carrier last fall enabled this international growth, which began earlier in 2026 with destinations like Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; Nassau, Bahamas; and Punta Cana from Raleigh, North Carolina.[1][2]
At Tampa International Airport, Breeze now supports four destinations, including upcoming service to Nassau starting June 11, 2026, and Montego Bay on December 19, 2026. Michael Stephens, TPA CEO, welcomed the additions. “It’s an exciting day for Tampa International Airport as we celebrate not one, but two new international nonstop routes,” he said.[3]
Enhanced Travel Options for Floridians
These routes revive direct access to San Jose from Tampa after a quarter-century gap, simplifying trips to Costa Rica’s cultural and natural attractions. Punta Cana service complements Breeze’s existing flights from other U.S. cities, broadening Caribbean reach. Together, they double Breeze’s international offerings from TPA.
Passengers benefit from the airline’s model of point-to-point flights between underserved markets. The expansion aligns with rising demand for Latin American and Caribbean escapes from Florida hubs.
- Cancun, Mexico
- Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Nassau, Bahamas
- Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
- San Jose, Costa Rica (new)
Key Takeaways
- Breeze Airways enters Central America with twice-weekly Tampa-San Jose flights starting October 2026.
- Punta Cana service from Tampa begins in July 2026 at fares from $129 one-way.
- These routes mark Breeze’s fifth international market since FAA certification.
Breeze Airways solidifies its role as a connector of affordable, direct leisure travel, opening doors to vibrant destinations for Tampa Bay residents. With summer and fall launches on the horizon, vacation planners have fresh opportunities to explore. What do you think about these new routes? Tell us in the comments.