By 1808Delaware
Central Ohio’s route map is expanding again. With the announcement of new Breeze Airways nonstop service to Savannah and Tampa, John Glenn International Airport continues what is shaping up to be a record-setting year for air service growth. In total, nine new nonstop destinations have been announced for 2026, providing passengers with access to more nonstop options than ever before.
Flights to Savannah begin July 1, operating on Wednesdays and Sundays. Tampa service launches July 3 with flights on Mondays and Fridays. Both routes are structured around long weekend travel, giving passengers flexibility without the hassle of a connection.
Daren A. Griffin, President and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, described Breeze as a strong partner as the airline approaches five years of service at John Glenn Columbus International Airport.
“Since their launch five years ago, Breeze Airways has been a tremendous partner, and we are thrilled to watch them expand their service at John Glenn International,” said Griffin. “By launching new nonstop routes to Savannah and Tampa and bolstering service to Portland, Maine, Breeze is delivering the variety and value our passengers deserve. We are excited to see this collaboration reach new heights as we continue to enhance connectivity for Central Ohio.”
For residents of Delaware County and northern Columbus, the growth carries particular weight. CMH remains an easy, quick drive down I-71 or U.S. 23, often faster and far simpler than navigating larger hub airports in other metro areas. That proximity means these new nonstop options are not abstract additions to a map. They are practical weekend getaways within reach.
Building on January’s Momentum
This expansion follows Breeze’s January announcement of new service to Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport, which begins May 8 and operates twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays. Greenville-Spartanburg became Breeze’s 10th route served from Columbus. Savannah and Tampa now extend that network further, strengthening Columbus’ direct connections to the Southeast and Florida.
Airport officials note that the announcements come on the heels of a record year in which 9.36 million passengers traveled through CMH.
Why These Routes Matter
Savannah brings historic charm and coastal access. Tampa offers Gulf Coast beaches and a gateway to Florida’s west coast economy. Both are high-demand leisure markets that fit Breeze’s point-to-point model. But the larger story is cumulative. Nine new nonstop destinations in a single year represents a structural increase in access for Central Ohio travelers. More nonstop routes reduce travel time, increase airline competition, and improve the region’s appeal to businesses and visitors alike.
For Delaware County residents especially, the equation is simple. A short drive south now opens up more direct destinations than ever before.
