Dane County Regional Airport and Breeze Airways Celebrate Inaugural Nonstop Flight from Madison to Raleigh

May 08, 2026
Michael Riechers, (608) 220-5454
Airport

Madison, WI — Dane County Regional Airport (DCRA) and Breeze Airways today celebrated the successful launch of new nonstop service between Madison and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), marking the inaugural flight of the recently announced route.
 

The first departure took place Friday evening, officially connecting two of the nation’s fastest-growing regions through convenient, affordable nonstop service. The seasonal route operates twice weekly on Mondays and Fridays.
 

“This inaugural flight is an exciting milestone for our community and a clear reflection of the strong demand for expanded air service in Dane County,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “Direct access to the Research Triangle strengthens economic ties, supports our growing business and academic sectors, and provides more convenient vacation options for our residents.”
 

Passengers on the first flight were welcomed with a celebratory sendoff at the gate, including refreshments and travel materials highlighting Raleigh and the surrounding region.
 

Raleigh-Durham is a key destination for both business and leisure travelers, home to major universities, a thriving technology and life sciences sector, and a dynamic cultural scene. The new nonstop service provides a direct link between two innovation-driven regions, making travel easier for business, education, healthcare, and tourism.
 

“This route is the result of strong community support for our local airport,” said Mark Papko, Executive Director of Dane County Regional Airport. “When travelers choose to Fly Local, it creates opportunities like this. We’re grateful to Breeze Airways for their continued investment in our community and their confidence in Madison’s growth. Their willingness to expand service here speaks volumes about the strength of this market. We’re proud to partner with Breeze to deliver another nonstop option that meets the needs of our passengers.”
 

The Raleigh flight expands Breeze Airways’ growing presence in Madison, complementing existing nonstop service to Tampa, Orlando, and Los Angeles.
 

Breeze Airways provides nonstop service between underserved routes across the U.S. at affordable fares, bringing premium, affordable, and nonstop air service to secondary markets on its flagship fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft. Breeze Airways operates more than 300 year-round and seasonal routes to 78 cities in 35 states.
 

MSN Airport continues to invest in terminal improvements and passenger amenities, including new and updated dining options, free Wi-Fi 6, Mother’s Lounges, children’s play areas, meeting rooms, and an indoor pet relief area. Visit msnairport.com for more information.