La Compagnie will operate direct business class flights between New York and Nice throughout winter 2026/27, marking the first time the route has extended beyond the summer season.

French all-business class airline La Compagnie is extending its direct New York (Newark) to Nice service into the 2026/27 winter season, as demand grows for year-round travel between the US and the French Riviera.

The French airline, which operates an all-business class model, says the move reflects increasing interest from American travellers visiting southern France as well as demand from passengers in the region seeking a direct connection to New York.

The route, which has operated during the summer season since its relaunch, will now continue through the autumn and winter months for the first time. La Compagnie will offer two flights per week during winter 2026/27, with departures from Newark on Mondays and Fridays and return services from Nice on Tuesdays and Fridays.

The expansion comes as destinations across southern Europe look to attract visitors outside traditional peak periods. The French Riviera has been working to strengthen its appeal as a year-round destination, moving beyond its reputation as a summer holiday hotspot.

By extending the service, La Compagnie is also increasing its presence in one of its key markets. The airline currently connects Newark with Paris Orly, Nice and Milan Malpensa, focusing exclusively on business class travel.

Christian Vernet, chairman and CEO of La Compagnie, says: "Extending our New York-Nice route into the fall-winter season reflects La Compagnie's growth momentum. It speaks to the rising enthusiasm for this signature route, driven both by the French Riviera's appeal to American travellers and by demand from southern France for a direct link to New York. This extension strengthens our position in a strategic market and reflects our commitment to delivering a one-of-a-kind transatlantic experience, entirely dedicated to business class."

The Nice announcement forms part of a wider expansion across La Compagnie's transatlantic network for summer 2026. The airline plans to operate daily flights between Newark and Paris Orly, up to six weekly services between Newark and Milan and up to four weekly flights between Newark and Nice.

Founded in 2014, La Compagnie has carved out a niche in the transatlantic aviation market by offering a business class-only experience at a lower price point than many traditional premium carriers. Its fleet consists of Airbus A321neo aircraft configured with just 76 seats in a 2x2 layout.

Passengers travelling with the airline have access to fully lie-flat seats, unlimited high-speed wifi, onboard entertainment and lounge access at departure airports. At Newark, customers can also use the carrier's dedicated Lounge&Co facility.

The airline says its approach is designed around the entire travel experience, from airport facilities through to onboard service. Seasonal menus developed with guest chefs and a curated wine programme are also included in the fare.

The decision to expand the New York-Nice service highlights the continued strength of premium leisure travel between North America and Europe. While business travel remains an important market, airlines are increasingly seeing affluent leisure travellers seek direct routes, additional comfort and more personalised experiences.

For the French Riviera, the winter extension provides a new direct connection to one of its most important international markets and could help support tourism growth outside the traditional summer season.