Icelandic ‘low-cost’ carrier Play Airlines has decided it will no longer fly in Canada and will cease operations as of April 22, 2025.
The airline has been flying out of John C. Munro Hamilton International Airport (YHM) for almost two years, but now some passengers aren’t sure if their tickets will still be valid.
Play Airlines is a budget-friendly airline that flies to Europe with a stop in Reykjavik, Iceland. It’s had the lowest fares in the category, but as costs continue to rise for airplanes, jet fuel and staffing, it appears the airline will halt its trips to and from Canada.
Passengers who booked with the airline had the option to enjoy a stay in Iceland available at no additional cost to take in the scenery of its largest city, as well as experience the country’s majestic countryside.
“Over the years, we have not been very kind to the success of these ultra low-cost carriers” said John Gradek, aviation expert with McGill University.
He also added that the low-cost carrier segments are facing increasing pressures with rising costs, inflation and competition from other airlines.
Last year, Lynx Airlines filed for creditor protection and in 2023, WestJet folded Swoop Airlines into its regular operations.
There is a long list of discount airlines that have tried and failed to operate in Canada. Although the ultra-low fares appear to be attractive to passengers, its business models are difficult for airlines to maintain.
“They are not making a lot of money. They have new planes, gas, and crew to pay for,” said Gradek.
As for passengers who already purchased flights with Play Airlines, their travel plans may be up in the air.
Gabor Lukacs, founder of Air Passenger Rights and advocate for passenger rights, said its not enough for the airline to offer refunds if it cancels flights.
“My main concern is with passengers who booked tickets and the need to be booked on other airlines” said Lukacs.
Lukacs also said he feels passengers should be rebooked on other airlines at no additional charge.
“Play will have to rebook passengers on their partner airlines or competitor airlines because it already sold tickets to those passengers,” Lukacs said.
CTV News reached out to Play Airlines for a comment, but did not receive a response. However, while the airline is ceasing its operations in Canada, it is expected to continue its flights between Europe and Iceland.
If you currently have tickets with Play Airlines, the company should notify you soon about your flight status. John C. Munro confirmed it will end its service in April, but said it remains confident in the future of its airport.