Exciting news for budget-conscious travelers! Breeze Airways, the "seriously nice" airline known for its affordable domestic flights, is spreading its wings internationally. This marks a significant milestone for the airline, as it ventures beyond US borders for the first time, offering a fresh alternative for travelers seeking value without compromising on experience.

What makes this expansion so noteworthy? Breeze Airways has successfully navigated the rigorous certification process of the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA), a feat not achieved by any other airline in the past decade. This certification allows Breeze to operate as a US flag carrier, opening up a world of possibilities for international routes and expanded services for American travelers.

Starting in January, Breeze Airways will be offering tantalizingly low one-way fares to some of the most sought-after vacation destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico. Imagine yourself basking in the sun-kissed beaches of Cancun, Mexico; Montego Bay, Jamaica; or Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, all for prices starting as low as $99. This is an incredible opportunity to escape the winter blues without breaking the bank.

Breeze Airways isn't just about affordability; it's also about convenience. The airline plans to strategically introduce international flights to airports and regions that are currently underserved by other major carriers. This means more direct routes and fewer layovers, saving you valuable time and hassle.

Here's a sneak peek at the new routes and their launch dates:

• Norfolk, Virginia, to Cancun, Mexico (starting early 2026)
• Charleston, South Carolina, to Cancun, Mexico (starting January 17, 2026)
• New Orleans to Cancun, Mexico (starting February 7, 2026)
• Tampa, Florida, to Montego Bay, Jamaica (starting February 11, 2026)
• Raleigh, North Carolina, to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (starting March 4, 2026)
• Raleigh, North Carolina, to Montego Bay, Jamaica (starting March 5, 2026)

Flights are already on sale, so now is the perfect time to snag those early-bird deals and plan your dream vacation. Breeze Airways' initial international destinations focus on the Caribbean and Mexico, but the airline has plans to expand its international network in the future.

David Neeleman, the founder and CEO of Breeze Airways, expressed his enthusiasm for this milestone, stating, "Becoming a US flag carrier is a huge milestone for Breeze, and one that our Team Members have been working tirelessly on for the last three years. We’re excited to bring the same convenience and elevated experience they love about our domestic flights to three exciting new international destinations."

Neeleman is a well-known figure in the airline industry, having also founded JetBlue Airways. His experience and vision have been instrumental in shaping Breeze Airways' unique approach to air travel, focusing on providing a "seriously nice" experience at an affordable price.

The airline's expansion isn't limited to international routes. Breeze Airways is also expanding its domestic network, connecting smaller cities and offering convenient nonstop flights within the US with prices starting from only $39. This commitment to underserved markets has made Breeze a popular choice for travelers seeking convenient and affordable air travel.

Breeze Airways' success can be attributed to its focus on customer satisfaction and its commitment to providing a unique and enjoyable travel experience. The airline's "seriously nice" approach extends to every aspect of the journey, from booking to baggage claim.

As Breeze Airways prepares to embark on its international journey, travelers can look forward to a new era of affordable and convenient air travel. The airline's commitment to innovation and customer service is sure to make it a formidable player in the international market.

Speaking of international travel, there are some important changes coming to European travel that US citizens should be aware of. The European Union is implementing a new Entry/Exit System (EES) that will change how travelers are processed at border crossings.

The EES, expected to be fully implemented by April 2026, is designed to automate border control processes and enhance security. This new system will replace the traditional passport stamping with a digital record of your entry and exit.

Here's what you need to know about the EES:

• No More Passport Stamps: Your passport will no longer be stamped upon entry or exit.
• Digital Records: The EES will electronically record your name, travel document details, and the date and time of your entry and exit.
• Biometric Data: Upon your first entry into a participating country after the system's implementation, you'll be required to provide biometric data.
• Fingerprint Scanning: All ten of your fingerprints will be scanned.
• Facial Recognition: A photograph will be taken for facial recognition purposes.
• Secure Data Storage: Your biometric information will be securely stored in a central EU database.
• Automated Stay Tracking: The EES will automatically track the length of your stay to ensure compliance with the "90 days within any 180-day period" rule for visa-free travel.

The EES aims to streamline border crossings and prevent overstays. While the initial rollout may cause some delays as travelers and border agents adjust to the new procedures, the long-term goal is to make the process faster and more efficient.

To further expedite the process, some airports will have self-service kiosks that allow travelers with biometric passports to complete the registration process more quickly. These kiosks will guide you through the steps of providing your biometric data and verifying your identity.

It's important to note the distinction between the EES and the upcoming European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The EES focuses on processing and tracking your entries and exits, while ETIAS is a travel authorization that will be required for visa-exempt travelers, including Americans, beginning in late 2026.

ETIAS is similar to the U.S. ESTA program and will involve a brief online application and a fee. Think of it as a pre-screening process that ensures travelers meet the necessary requirements for visa-free entry into the Schengen Area.

While the EES and ETIAS may seem like additional hurdles for travelers, they are designed to enhance security and improve the overall travel experience. By automating border control processes and pre-screening travelers, these systems aim to make travel safer and more efficient in the long run.

So, as you plan your future trips to Europe, be sure to familiarize yourself with the EES and ETIAS requirements. These changes will impact all visa-exempt travelers, including US citizens, and understanding them will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

With Breeze Airways expanding its horizons and the EU implementing new border control systems, the world of travel is constantly evolving. Staying informed about these changes will help you make the most of your travel experiences and ensure that your journeys are as seamless and enjoyable as possible.