PLAY Airlines has unveiled a new flight route that promises to transform travel between Canada and Portugal. Starting on April 12, 2025, travelers can fly directly from Hamilton, Ontario, to Faro, Portugal, with a convenient stopover in Iceland. This twice-weekly service, which will operate until October 29, 2025, is a significant development for both Canadian travelers seeking affordable European vacations and the wider tourism industry.
For Canadian travelers, the new route offers a budget-friendly gateway to one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations: Faro, Portugal. Known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture, Faro has long been a desirable vacation spot. With PLAY Airlines’ competitive fares starting at just $650 CAD for a roundtrip via Iceland, this destination is now more accessible than ever. The affordability is expected to attract a wide range of travelers, including budget-conscious families and solo adventurers who may have previously found European travel out of reach.
The new route also provides flexibility for travelers departing from Hamilton International Airport. With twice-weekly service, passengers can plan their trips around work schedules, school holidays, or spontaneous weekend escapes. This accessibility is likely to boost the airport’s significance within the Canadian travel network.
The impact of this new route extends beyond Canadian travelers. The influx of Canadian tourists to Faro is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy, supporting businesses in the hospitality, dining, and entertainment sectors. PLAY Airlines’ strategic positioning in the transatlantic market could lead to a surge in demand for guided tours, cultural experiences, and coastal activities in Faro and the Algarve region.
For Canada, the promotion of Faro as a tourist destination may encourage more Canadians to consider international travel, particularly to Europe. This could lead to increased tourism-related revenues for Canadian businesses, especially those involved in travel services, such as tour operators, travel agencies, and accommodation providers. The route also highlights the potential for further collaboration between Canadian and Portuguese tourism boards, fostering a stronger bilateral relationship in the tourism sector.
The inclusion of a stopover in Iceland adds another layer of appeal to the route. Travelers have the opportunity to explore two destinations for the price of one. This innovative approach to travel is likely to resonate with adventure seekers and those looking for unique travel experiences. The option to extend the stopover in Iceland for up to 10 days without additional airfare costs provides a cost-effective way to explore the natural wonders and cultural richness of Iceland. This stopover option could also lead to increased tourism in Iceland, as more travelers take advantage of the opportunity to visit the country en route to their final destination. This could mean a boost in tourism revenues for Iceland, particularly in sectors such as eco-tourism, outdoor activities, and cultural tourism.
The introduction of this new route by PLAY Airlines underscores the evolving dynamics of the global travel industry, where budget airlines are increasingly playing a central role in connecting distant markets. The Hamilton-Faro route, with its strategic stopover in Iceland, is likely to influence travel trends by making European destinations more accessible to North American travelers. This development could lead to increased competition among airlines, potentially resulting in more affordable travel options and diversified routes for global travelers. Furthermore, PLAY’s success in expanding its network and passenger base may encourage other budget airlines to explore similar opportunities, particularly in underserved markets. This could lead to a broader shift in the airline industry, where low-cost carriers gain more prominence in international travel, offering travelers a wider range of affordable options without compromising on the quality of their travel experiences.
