Full Video: Breeze and Connect Airlines Discuss Startup Strategies at Skift Aviation Forum 2022
Photo Caption: Lukas Johnson (left) of Breeze Airways and John Thomas of Connect Airlines speaking on stage at Skift Aviation Forum in Dallas, Texas, November 2022 Dylan Pacholek / Skift
Skift Take
The executives of Connect Airlines and Breeze Airways say a post-economic crisis is a good time to start an airline, but the window of opportunity could be closing.
Executives from two new airlines, Connect Airlines and Breeze Airways, shared their strategies at the Skift Aviation Forum in Dallas for starting up and pushing forward.
The executives included John Thomas, CEO of Connect Airlines, and Lukas Johnson, chief commercial officer for Breeze Airways.
Owned by Massachusetts-based Waltzing Matilda Aviation, Connect Airlines plans to start service early next year with flights between Toronto to Chicago and Philadelphia.
Breeze began operations in May 2021, founded by David Neeleman, who started JetBlue and Azul Airlines. The Utah-based airline now offers more than 100 routes.
Topics covered included pilot and airplane shortages, route development, sustainability, airplane design for luxury travelers, and succeeding in a tough economic environment.
Watch their full on-stage interview with Airline Weekly editor Edward Russell, or read the transcript below.
