European airline Play has collapsed, impacting thousands of travellers. The Icelandic low-cost carrier states on its website that it has ceased operations and that “all flights have been cancelled”.
In its statement, Play advises customers to “check flights with other airlines” for alternative travel.
“Some carriers may offer special ‘rescue fares’ considering the circumstances,” it adds.
Fly tells passengers who purchased their ticket with a credit card to contact their card issuer about refunds.
Those who booked their ticket as part of a package (flight and accommodation or services) through a travel agency in the European Economic Area (EEA) should contact their agency.
“Some rights may also apply under EU Air Passenger regulations. In case of bankruptcy, claims should be directed to the appointed administrator,” it states.
“We are deeply sorry for the disruption this causes and thank you for your understanding.”
Affected passengers seeking more information can also visit www.icetra.is and www.kefairport.com.
The carrier’s demise follows the bankruptcy of Icelandic budget airline WOW Air in 2019.
A transatlantic airline, Play flew between Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, and ports across Europe, the US, Canada and Morocco.
Reykjavik Keflavik Airport spokesperson Gudjon Helgason stated that around 1,750 flyers were affected by the announcement on Monday alone, the New York Times reported.
Flights to Baltimore, London, Paris, Barcelona and Lisbon were among the cancelled services on that day.
According to the airline’s 2024 financial results released in February, Play carried 1.6 million passengers in 2024, up 17.1% from the previous year. However, while revenue rose 4% to US$292 million, the carrier saw an EBIT (earnings before interest and taxes) loss of US$30.5 million.
“Looking ahead to 2025, we are optimistic about continued progress,” CEO Einar Örn Ólafsson said at the time.
