PLAY Airlines transported 144,746 passengers in September 2024, marking a 14.7% decline compared to last year, when 163,784 passengers flew with the low-cost carrier. Despite this drop, the airline recorded an increase in its load factor, which rose from 85% in September 2023 to 87.3% this year, indicating improved efficiency in filling seats.
Among PLAY’s passengers, 28.3% were departing from Iceland, 35.8% were flying to Iceland, and 35.9% were connected through the country. Notably, the number of passengers departing from Iceland increased by 9% compared to 2023. Around 41,000 passengers flew out of Iceland, up from 38,000 the previous year.
The airline reported strong load factors in key markets, with North American routes reaching 89.7%, and routes within the European Union recording a 6% increase in load factor. PLAY’s punctuality also saw a significant improvement, rising from 85.1% in September 2023 to 90.5% this year.
PLAY continues to expand its network, having launched regular flights to Pula, Croatia, and Valencia, Spain, in September. The airline has also increased its frequency to Split, Croatia, from one to two weekly flights. The number of seats offered to Spain in 2024 reached almost 300,000, a 12% increase compared to the previous year.
In addition to its network growth, PLAY Airlines has strengthened its position through a partnership with Sabre Corporation, enabling travel agencies to access affordable transatlantic flights. This collaboration is expected to expand the airline’s presence in North America and Europe.
Commenting on the results, PLAY CEO Einar Örn Ólafsson said, “We have recorded several improvements in September despite the decline in passenger numbers. Our load factor increased by 2.3 percentage points, and our local market share continues to grow year after year. The summer presented challenges for our connecting transatlantic routes due to the significant increase in non-stop flights by other airlines. However, with adjustments to our North American routes and a favorable market outlook with reduced capacity, we expect our future unit revenues to gain positive momentum in the coming months.”
PLAY Airlines operates an extensive network in Spain, including flights to destinations such as Barcelona, Madrid, and Tenerife-Sur. In North America, the airline serves major cities like Baltimore, Boston, and New York/Newburgh with daily flights.
The airline’s focus on improving efficiency and expanding its transatlantic presence signals optimism for continued growth in the coming months.
