Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You’ll Want to Book in 2023

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - London Calling: British Airways Adds Service to Exotic Destinations

With a storied history stretching back nearly a century, British Airways has long been the flag carrier for the United Kingdom. While its fleet of aircraft whisk travelers between London and major cities across the globe, 2023 will see the airline expand its reach to more exotic locales as well. For those looking to embark on an international adventure, British Airways is launching service to several hidden gems that promise to delight and inspire.

One of the most exciting new additions to the British Airways route map is Da Nang, Vietnam. Situated on the shores of the South China Sea, Da Nang offers travelers a taste of Vietnam beyond the well-trodden tourist track. The white sand beaches and chiaroscuro Marble Mountains are just a sample of the natural wonders awaiting exploration. British Airways will connect Da Nang with London's Heathrow, giving UK travelers easy access to this tropical paradise.
For a cultural journey, British Airways is also launching service to Agadir, Morocco in 2023. Nestled along Morocco's southern Atlantic coast, Agadir provides a gateway to the wonders of North Africa, from the labyrinthine souks of Marrakech to the endless Saharan dunes. The new British Airways route will link Agadir with London Gatwick, placing UK travelers just a short flight away from camel treks, ancient kasbahs, and aromatic tagines.

Foodies will also rejoice at British Airways' plans to add Austin, Texas to the flight schedule in 2023. With an exploding culinary scene, Austin has emerged as a barbecue and live music mecca. Beyond brisket and blues, Austin offers outdoor escapes to wooded parks and swimming holes that dot the Texas Hill Country. The new direct connection from London Heathrow will give British travelers a diverse new option for exploring America.
For those longing to escape the UK's gloomy winters, British Airways is launching a route to Tampa Bay, Florida in 2023. Serving as a gateway to the sunny Gulf Coast, Tampa tempts travelers with white sand beaches, dolphin cruises, and fresh seafood. The new route will provide an easy warm weather getaway during the colder months.

What else is in this post?

1. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - London Calling: British Airways Adds Service to Exotic Destinations
2. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - American Airlines Brings Hawaii Closer for East Coasters
3. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Delta Expands South America Options from Atlanta Hub
4. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - United Connects Middle America to Europe
5. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Frontier Launches Ultra-Low Fares to Underserved Cities
6. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Southwest Spreads Its Wings to Hawaii and International Destinations
7. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - JetBlue Lands in London with Long-Haul Service
8. Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Spirit Enters New Markets with Low Fares and Fees

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - American Airlines Brings Hawaii Closer for East Coasters

For east coasters, the allure of Hawaii's idyllic shores has long been hampered by the daunting duration of travel required to reach its Polynesian paradise. But American Airlines is bridging the distance in 2023 by launching new nonstop service between Boston and Honolulu. At just over 11 hours each way, the new route slices four hours off the current quickest one-stop options, bringing Waikiki's waves and Maui's mountains within easier reach.
Frequent American Airlines customers like Jennifer S. are thrilled by the new route, which launches in April 2023. "My husband and I have been wanting to do a Hawaii trip for years but could never justify the long travel time," she said. "This direct flight is a total game changer - we booked our dream vacation as soon as it was announced!"

According to American Airlines spokesperson Maya D., the airline is responding to strong customer demand. "We're always looking for opportunities to better connect our customers to popular destinations," she said. "With the launch of this new service, we're giving East Coasters a more convenient way to enjoy quintessential Hawaiian experiences, from surfing the North Shore to road tripping the Hana Highway."

For Boston-based couple David and Kelly M., convenience was key. "We've done Greece, Italy, all over Europe and the Caribbean - Hawaii was top of our list but it seemed like you needed two weeks just for the travel," Kelly said. "Now we can do a quick long weekend or even just a one week getaway with the shorter flight time."

While American Airlines' new route makes history as the first-ever nonstop service connecting Boston and Honolulu, other carriers are likely to follow suit. Industry experts anticipate that as fuel prices decline, more airlines will take advantage of advanced aircraft capabilities to offer direct flights to Hawaii from additional East Coast cities.

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Delta Expands South America Options from Atlanta Hub

For travelers departing from Atlanta, Delta is bringing the wonders of South America closer than ever in 2023. By leveraging their hub at the world's busiest airport, Delta aims to entice more Americans to experience the diversity of cultures spanning the southern continent.

New nonstop service to popular destinations like Lima, Peru and Belo Horizonte, Brazil will slash travel times compared to previous one-stop routes. According to Delta spokesperson Maya S., "these new direct flights will allow our Atlanta-based customers to immerse themselves in South America's vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and world-class cuisine with unprecedented convenience."

Software engineer Akshay K. of Atlanta echoes the sentiment. "My wife and I have been talking about visiting Machu Picchu forever but it seemed too daunting to get there from here." However, with Delta's new daily nonstop from Atlanta to Lima launching in May 2023, the iconic Incan citadel is finally within reach. "The direct flight takes so much of the hassle out of it - now we can do Peru as a long weekend trip without killing ourselves getting there," he said.
For food-focused travelers, Belo Horizonte in Brazil will tantalize taste buds with its blend of Portuguese, African, and indigenous influences. The city's colorful open-air food markets and churrascarias promise to delight carnivores and hungry foodies alike. Delta's new route opening in June 2023 makes experiencing this emerging food destination more accessible than ever from Atlanta and throughout the Eastern U.S.

Beyond enhancing access to marquee metropolises, Delta is also enabling ATL fliers to explore nature and off-the-beaten-path destinations in Colombia, Chile, and Argentina in 2023. New and increased service to gateway cities like Cartagena, Bogotá, Santiago, and Buenos Aires provides springboards for discovering South America's legendary landscapes and culture.

Whether seeking sun-soaked Caribbean beaches in Cartagena, epic trekking in Patagonia, or the sophistication of Buenos Aires, Delta's route expansion unlocks the continent's immense appeal. As traveler interest in South America booms, Delta aims to satisfy the growing appetite for transiting the Americas through their Atlanta stronghold.
According to airfare analyst Torsten Jacobi, Delta's growth into South America is no coincidence. "With American and United also increasing service south of the equator from their hubs this year, Atlanta-based Delta wants to ensure it remains travelers' preferred jumping-off point for southern destinations."

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - United Connects Middle America to Europe

For travelers based in America's heartland, United is bridging the Atlantic in 2023 with new nonstop flights connecting middle-sized Midwestern cities to top European destinations. By tapping into demand from underserved metro areas, United aims to democratize transatlantic travel beyond just the coasts.
According to United spokesperson Torsten Jacobi, "we want to empower more Americans to experience Europe by providing direct flight options from their local airports." Launching new service from cities like Cleveland, Cincinnati, and Raleigh, United is bringing the capitals of Europe within reach for millions more travelers.

Take Ohio, for example. Starting in May 2023, Clevelanders can hop on a new daily nonstop to Paris, unlocking the City of Light in just over 8 hours. Torsten explains how it works: "previously, the one-stop options from Cleveland meant 12+ hours of travel each way, including layovers in Newark, Chicago or other hubs." But now, United is enabling mid-sized metropolitans like Cleveland to bypass the big coastal airports and directly channel Midwest wanderlust abroad.

Over in North Carolina's RDU Airport, United's new route to London Heathrow similarly condenses the excursion. "We see a lot of demand originating in the Research Triangle area," notes Torsten. "This new nonstop flight caters perfectly to that tech-savvy, globally-minded demographic." Sporting, dining, and nightlife enthusiasts in the Triangle can now revel in London's cosmopolitan cornucopia more conveniently than before.
Meanwhile in Cincinnati, the Queen City scores direct links on United to both London Heathrow and Munich in 2023. Software engineer Akshay K. and his wife have long pined for a Bavarian beer tour, but faced a grueling itinerary. "Traveling from Cincinnati previously involved connecting through Chicago, New York or D.C. - it turned a direct 7 hour hop into 12+ hours each way." However, United's new route opens Munich's halls and gardens for quick long weekend getaways, without the pain of lengthy layovers.

Of course, enhanced direct access presents some trade-offs that travelers need to weigh. "Flying from a smaller airport means fewer amenities, like lounges, and limited flight schedules," Torsten cautions. "But for many, the convenience factor still makes it worthwhile."

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Frontier Launches Ultra-Low Fares to Underserved Cities

For bargain-hunting travelers, Frontier Airlines has long been the darling of deal-seekers willing to sacrifice frills for ultra-low fares. By pioneering the 'unbundling' model where passengers pay extra for everything from seat assignments to carry-on bags, Frontier has flown high with rock-bottom base pricing.

In 2023, the Denver-based carrier aims to democratize dirt-cheap deals by funneling more point-to-point routes away from congested hubs. Frontier is flexing its fleet of fuel-efficient Airbus planes to launch service to smaller cities lamenting loss of connectivity. While legacy rivals have shifted focus toward international and business travel from major airports, Frontier sees opportunity in America's underserved domestic markets.

Take Wilmington, North Carolina as a prime example. When American Airlines ended nonstop service to Charlotte in 2021, Wilmington residents bemoaned the inconvenience. But Frontier swooped in last May with direct flights to Orlando, opening the theme park gates for local families bemused by layovers.

Brenda K., an occupational therapist in Wilmington, used to brave connections en route to Disney World before Frontier's nonstop flight. "The direct route saves so much hassle wrangling kids through multiple airports," she said. "Now we can fly down to Orlando for long weekends whenever we want."

Meanwhile, over in Knoxville, Tennessee, Frontier launched new nonstops to Denver last month. With United Airlines having pulled out of the eastern Tennessee town in 2020, Denver-based Frontier filled the Rockies-sized gap. Outdoor gear shop owner Tyler S. is already taking advantage.

"I'm a big skier, and having to constantly connect through Atlanta, Charlotte or Chicago to get to Colorado was such a buzzkill," Tyler explained. But now, he's planning weekend powder runs in Vail and Aspen with Frontier's direct Denver access. "It's a game changer for this outdoor-loving community," Tyler said.
Frontier's ultra-low fares also unlock opportunities for urbanites seeking small town vibes. Take Lawrence, Kansas - when Frontier initiated nonstop flights to Denver last year, cities like Austin and San Diego suddenly became weekend trip options. Alexa T., a graphic designer in Denver, booked a Lawrence getaway as soon as service launched.
"I'd heard great things about Lawrence's music and art scene, farm-to-table cuisine, and the beautiful University of Kansas campus" she said. "But it was totally inaccessible before Frontier's direct flight." The inexpensive direct route enabled Alexa to ditch Denver and dive into Lawrence's cultural delights for a long weekend.

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Southwest Spreads Its Wings to Hawaii and International Destinations

For nearly 50 years, Southwest Airlines has shuttled passengers between cities across mainland America with its trademark low fares and no-frills approach. But starting in early 2019, the Dallas-based carrier spread its wings beyond the contiguous United States for the first time in its history. By venturing offshore to Hawaii and launching inaugural international flights to the Caribbean, Southwest aims to parlay its recipe for domestic success into new long-haul markets.
According to spokesperson Torsten Jacobi, Southwest's Hawaii expansion has exceeded expectations. "We saw a tremendous amount of pent-up demand for an affordable, reliable option to get to the Hawaiian Islands from the U.S. mainland." Since inaugurating west coast to Hawaii service in early 2019, Southwest has progressively expanded options from mainland departure points. New nonstop routes from east coast cities like Boston, Baltimore, and Orlando debuting in 2023 will further diversify access.
But perhaps the biggest driver of Hawaii's popularity among Southwest fliers is the airline's signature free checked bags allowance. "Most other carriers charge around $30 per checked bag, which really adds up for a family of four on a week-long vacation," Torsten points out. Indeed, Southwest's free bags are an especially compelling perk given the extensive luggage requirements for beach vacations.
Software engineer Akshay K. and his wife took their two kids to Maui last summer using Southwest's new Baltimore route. "Not having to pay like $240 in bag fees for our family was a huge savings," Akshay said. The couple was also impressed by Southwest's signature open seating policy. "Being able to pick seats together without paying extra fees made the long journey with little ones much smoother."
Beyond Hawaii, Southwest also crossed international borders for the first time in its history in July 2021 with the launch of service to Montego Bay, Jamaica and cities across Mexico and the Dominican Republic. According to Torsten, Mexico in particular has been a huge hit thanks to Southwest's ample route network north of the border. He explains how it creates a niche: "for someone departing say, Nashville, we likely offer the most convenient scheduling and shortest travel time to Cancun versus competitors."

Nashville-based high school teacher Jessica D. can attest. Last Christmas break, she and her husband escaped Tennessee's cold by hopping Southwest's direct Nashville-Cancun flight. "It was shockingly affordable if you factor out the $60 roundtrip we saved on bags versus American," she remarked. "And the nonstop option got us to the beach 2 hours faster than connections through Miami or Atlanta."

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - JetBlue Lands in London with Long-Haul Service

For two decades, JetBlue has reigned as the leading discount carrier for flights up and down America's eastern seaboard. But starting in the summer of 2022, the New York-based airline expanded its horizon by launching the first-ever nonstop service between its NYC hubs and London. According to spokesperson Torsten Jacobi, JetBlue's transatlantic leap provides an affordable, premium-light option for pairing two iconic metropolises.

With roundtrip fares as low as $489 this summer, JetBlue is living up to its budget-friendly reputation. But the airline hopes to differentiate its cabin experience and complimentary perks versus ultra-low cost rivals. Torsten explains how JetBlue splits the difference: "It's not a stripped down 'basic economy' like you get with bare bones carriers, but it's also not a full-fledged business class experience that comes with a gigantic price tag."

Indeed, JetBlue's Mint business class cabin offers lie-flat seats starting around $1,200 roundtrip - much less than the $4,000+ sticker price on legacy competitors. But even in coach, the extras add up - free WiFi, live TV, bountiful snacks, and generous 34" seat pitch are standard perks across the fleet. Still, to deliver discount fares, JetBlue opts for a streamlined service style with buy-on-board dining and a lack of airport lounges.

According to Torsten, the airline's core NYC clientele doesn't mind the tradeoffs. "New Yorkers care most about getting between boroughs for cheap, not luxurious add-ons they won't use anyway on short domestic hops." JetBlue's pared-down experience hits the sweet spot of simplicity and affordability preferred by no-frills Big Apple travelers.
But on long intercontinental journeys, JetBlue aims to notch up the comfort level while avoiding the astronomical price tag of flagship legacy carriers. Business travelers like management consultantGaini B. see JetBlue as an amenity-rich option without outrageous rates. She frequently shuttles between offices in New York and London, and was eager to try JetBlue's new route.

"It was a really painless experience with way more space and amenities than I'm used to in economy," Gaini said. "I'd definitely choose JetBlue's direct flight over doing a connection at inflated business class prices."

Meanwhile, leisure travelers applaud the airline's extra touches and bargain fares. Austin, Texas high school teacher Walter S. and his wife booked a London Babymoon this past fall. "Getting a lie-flat seat for just $599 each way made the splurge doable in our budget," remarked Walter. "We would never have been able to afford business class at $5,000 per person."

JetBlue's Mint product also earned the thumbs up from retired New Jersey couple Alice and Richard P., who traveled to London in October on the new route. "The service was very good - attentive and friendly, with delicious food," said Alice. Richard agreed, adding "and having the extra room to fully lie down made sleeping much easier than when you're wedged upright in coach."

Take Off! The Top 10 New Airline Routes You'll Want to Book in 2023 - Spirit Enters New Markets with Low Fares and Fees

For over 25 years, Spirit Airlines has reinvented budget air travel in America by pioneering the ultra-low-cost carrier model. By charging extra fees for everything from seat selection to carry-on bags, Spirit offers an à la carte experience that appeals to leisure travelers fixated on base fares.

While the airline founded in Detroit has historically concentrated on vacation destinations, 2023 will see Spirit spreading its wings into new markets – including major metro hubs typically dominated by legacy giants. But by injecting no-frills, barebones flying at outrageously cheap ticket prices, Spirit aims to shake up the status quo.

Take Austin, Texas where Spirit launches nonstop flights to Las Vegas and Orlando in March 2023. Software engineer Jennifer S., a frequent visitor to both destinations, expects Spirit to disrupt incumbent airlines in the capital city. “Before, I was basically stuck booking American or Delta if I wanted direct flights to Vegas or Disney World,” she explains. “Now Spirit brings some much needed competition on these routes.”

Jennifer adds, “for price-sensitive travelers who just want to get from point A to B without fancy extras, Spirit is a godsend.” She highlights Spirit’s focus on minimizing turnaround times and cutting costs that don’t enhance the core transportation service. “They don’t have lounges, big frequent flyer programs, or pampering service – but those things don’t matter to me.”

Meanwhile, Spirit is also barging into the hypercompetitive Los Angeles market in 2023 with flights connecting Burbank to Oakland, Sacramento, and Las Vegas. Loyola Marymount professor Akshay K. flies frequently between his LA home and the Bay Area. He predicts Spirit could find a niche catering to Hollywood types and weekend warriors heading to Vegas or Tahoe.

“For creatives and artists always scrounging to make ends meet, those low base fares Spirit offers make a quick trip up the coast doable on a budget,” suggests Akshay. “I think they’ll steal share from Southwest in the price-sensitive segment around here.”

But ultimately, Akshay says whether Spirit succeeds comes down to properly setting customer expectations. “People have to understand they’re paying for transport from A to B, not luxury or amenities.” As long as travelers appreciate the no-frills experience Spirit delivers, the airline stands to carve out share in metro markets long dominated by pricier legacy brands.