Icelandic low-cost carrier PLAY Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its fleet and a strategic partnership with Sabre Corporation to boost its global reach. This collaboration aims to make PLAY Airlines’ budget-friendly flights more accessible to travelers worldwide.
PLAY Airlines has successfully integrated iPort’s airport solutions, including the Departure Control System (DCS), to streamline operations across its growing network. This strategic move improves passenger experience and ground efficiency, ensuring a smoother journey from check-in to boarding. The integration, spanning over 20 airports, positions PLAY Airlines as a leader in delivering efficient, customer-centric air travel.
PLAY Airlines has announced a new flight route connecting Hamilton, Ontario, to Faro, Portugal, with a stopover in Iceland. This twice-weekly service, beginning April 12, 2025, offers budget-friendly fares and is expected to boost tourism in both Canada and Portugal.
PLAY Airlines is expanding its reach by launching new direct flights from Faro, Portugal, to Iceland. The budget-friendly airline offers stopover programs in Iceland, allowing passengers to explore its stunning landscapes at no additional cost. This new route adds to PLAY’s growing network, connecting North America and Europe through its Icelandic hub.
In April 2024, PLAY airlines experienced remarkable growth, hosting 122,217 passengers, a 19% increase compared to April 2023. The load factor also rose to 85.1% from 80.8% last year. PLAY’s successful performance is attributed to increased recognition in its markets and a well-managed 16% expansion in available seat kilometers. The airline maintained a strong on-time performance of 89.4%, exceeding its annual target of 85%. Notably, European city destinations such as London, Alicante, Paris, Copenhagen, and Berlin achieved load factors exceeding 90%. Additionally, PLAY announced ticket sales for a new route to Cardiff, Wales, starting in October 2024. PLAY’s CEO expressed confidence in the team’s ability to provide exceptional service during the upcoming summer season.
