Breeze Airways History: David Neeleman's Newest Airline – Airline Employee Shop

Breeze Airways History

Breeze Airways is the newest airline from JetBlue founder David Neeleman, built around nonstop flights between cities the big airlines often skip. Here's a short history of Breeze, plus the Breeze Airways collection that celebrates it.

From Moxy to Breeze (2018-2020)

In 2018 David Neeleman, who earlier founded JetBlue, began planning a new U.S. airline under the working name Moxy. Former Air Canada CEO Robert Milton was among the backers. In July 2018 the startup signed for 60 Airbus A220-300s, an order made firm in January 2019. On February 7, 2020, the airline announced its real name, Breeze Airways, because of a trademark conflict with Marriott's Moxy hotels. It still uses the MX code and the MOXY call sign. Headquarters are in Cottonwood Heights, Utah.

First flights (2021)

Breeze received its first Embraer 195, leased from Azul, in December 2020, and its first Embraer 190 in February 2021. The airline won its operating certificate on May 14, 2021, and flew its first flight, Tampa to Charleston, on May 27, 2021. Its first Airbus A220-300 arrived late in 2021, and Breeze introduced "Nicest," its premium fare.

The A220 takes over (2022-2026)

The A220 entered service on May 25, 2022, bringing first-class seats to Breeze, later branded "Breeze Ascent." By 2024 the A220 order had grown to 90 aircraft. The Embraer 195s left the fleet in May 2025. Breeze celebrated its final Embraer 190 flight in September 2026, making it an all-A220 airline. In 2026 Breeze also began its first international flights, adding Cancun, Montego Bay and Punta Cana. It now serves cities across the United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

A few things collectors love

  • Breeze kept its original Moxy roots in its MX airline code and MOXY radio call sign.
  • Breeze's Embraer 190s flew more than 5,000 flights before the last one retired in 2026.
  • Breeze was the first U.S. domestic airline certified by Autism Double Checked.

Shop Breeze Airways

Browse Breeze Airways logo T-shirts, coffee mugs, coasters, tote bags and vintage designs in the Breeze Airways collection. Add an airline bag tag or key tag for the frequent flyer in your life.

AirlineEmployeeShop.com is an independent retailer of airline memorabilia. This page is for historical interest and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Breeze Airways.