Source: Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines today announced it will launch service this fall to four popular Florida destinations from Connecticut’s most convenient and relaxing airport – Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN).

Starting November 3, Avelo will operate nonstop flights from its first East Coast base at HVN to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Fort Myers’ Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW), Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tampa International Airport (TPA). One-way introductory fares starting at $59* can be booked at AveloAir.com.

“We’re excited to bring more choice, everyday low fares and the Avelo Soul of Service to Connecticut,” said Avelo Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy. “Connecticut residents told us they want more convenient and affordable options for flying to Florida and we listened. These four popular sun-soaked destinations are an ideal winter retreat. The refreshingly simple and smooth HVN small-airport experience will ensure our Customers depart relaxed and ready for some fun in the sun.”

Avelo will be the first airline to offer nonstop flights between HVN and Florida. Avelo’s arrival to HVN also marks the largest expansion of service at HVN in more than 30 years.

“Today’s announcement from Avelo Airlines is another clear step towards transforming Tweed-New Haven into a more vibrant and sustainable airport, one that can help grow jobs and serve as an economic driver for our region,” said Sean Scanlon, Executive Director of Tweed-New Haven Airport. “For years the people of southern Connecticut have been asking for more options when it comes to flights, and – starting this November – that will be a reality. While today is very exciting, it is truly just the beginning, and we look forward to a continued and growing partnership with Avelo here at HVN.”

The new routes are being announced today at a ceremony at HVN. The event is being attended by state and local dignitaries, as well as airport and airline leaders. Confirmed speakers include:

  • U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal
  • Connecticut Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz
  • New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker
  • HVN Executive Director Sean Scanlon
  • Avelo Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy
  • Avports CEO Jorge Roberts
  • Avelo Vice President of Customer Experience Vicky Stennes

A Different and Better Travel Experience

Avelo became America’s first new scheduled airline in nearly 15 years when it initiated service from its first base at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) on April 28, 2021. The airline – which offers a more convenient, caring and affordable experience – currently serves nine popular destinations across the Western U.S.

Avelo will operate single-class, fuel-efficient Boeing 737-700 Next Gen aircraft at HVN to provide a more comfortable, mainline jet experience than the small regional jets that historically served the airport. The 147-seat aircraft will provide Customers with a large, spacious cabin with more room and seating options.

In its first 100 days of operation, Avelo has achieved industry-leading reliability. Since inaugurating its first flight, Avelo has operated more than 1,250 flights with only three cancellations – a 99.8% completion factor. During that same period, Avelo achieved an 85% on-time arrival performance. In July, Avelo reported a 92% on-time performance and zero cancellations.

“Today’s announcement from Avelo Airlines is great news for Connecticut,” Connecticut Lt. Governor Bysiewicz said. “Tweed-New Haven airport is an accessible, convenient travel option for families across our state, and the introduction of more flights and more destinations will truly help turn it into a gateway to southern Connecticut and New England. Today’s announcement will also bring good-paying jobs to the New Haven region and will drive economic growth in our state. I look forward to welcoming Avelo to Connecticut’s skies this November.”

Amidst the crowds, long lines, lengthy walks and traffic congestion encountered at other airports frequented by Connecticut residents, HVN offers the refreshingly smooth and simple hometown airport experience Connecticut residents are seeking. HVN’s adjacency to multiple major highways and commuter railways make it Connecticut’s most convenient and easily accessible airport.

“More options for our residents and more economic activity for our region. This is very exciting,” said New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. “Today’s announcement builds a strong leisure and economic relationship with leading destinations in Florida. In doing so, Avelo will create good paying local jobs and build economic development momentum as we implement a long-term sustainable plan for our region.”

Avelo has committed to invest $1.2 million to help upgrade and modernize facilities and operations as part of an overall $100 million project at HVN which will include a new terminal and extended runway spearheaded by airport operator Avports.

“As the local operator of Tweed-New-Haven for more than 20 years, we are extremely excited that Avelo Airlines will soon be starting these new nonstop flights from Connecticut,” said Jorge Roberts, CEO of Avports. “Both Avports and Avelo have made clear that we believe in the long-term future of HVN and its ability to serve more flyers from the surrounding region. In the coming months, we look forward to hiring for new jobs at the airport to support this increased activity.”

Avelo’s Customer experience commitment includes no change or cancellation fees. The airline also does not impose a call center fee for Customers who choose to book their flights by phone and Avelo does not overbook flights.