Ouch: Avelo Cuts 66% Of Its International Routes
Airlines often revise their networks, and Avelo is no exception. The carrier plans a major international pullback at the start of next year.
Significant Reductions in Route Network
In January, Avelo will withdraw from Hartford and discontinue its international route from Raleigh/Durham. As a result, it will drop four of six international services, including those to Cancun and Montego Bay.
Context and Industry Movements
News of the Montego Bay exit came shortly before Jamaica suffered the impact of Hurricane Melissa. Meanwhile, Breeze Airways may step into some of these routes, as it has done elsewhere, though it recently canceled three of its own planned flights before launch.
Historical Air Service Data
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nonstop Hartford–Cancun flights operated between 2005 and 2023 under various carriers, including Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, and USA 3000. Additionally, USA 3000 served Punta Cana between 2004 and 2007, while Spirit managed Montego Bay flights in 2022 and 2023.
Performance and Load Factors
Load factor is one measure of a route’s success but shouldn’t be evaluated alone. Avelo’s Hartford international routes recorded seat loads ranging from 59% to 79%.
“With only 59% of seats filled, Cancun sticks out like a sore thumb.”
U.S. DOT data shows that since the Hartford–Cancun route began in November 2024, no month has exceeded a 66% load factor, reflecting its ongoing struggle.
Summary
Avelo will end most of its international network in early 2026, reflecting broader route optimization trends as smaller airlines adapt to demand and competition.
Author’s note: Avelo’s strategic cuts highlight how mid-size U.S. carriers recalibrate international offerings to sustain operational efficiency.