An Icelandic low-cost airline has abruptly shut down.
In a statement posted on its website, Fly Play, also known as Play, said it has canceled all of its flights and is working to wind down its business.
“Dear passenger,” the message began. “Fly Play hf has ceased operations, and all flights have been canceled. We kindly advise you to check flights with other airlines. Some carriers may offer special ‘rescue fares’ considering the circumstances.”
“We are deeply sorry for the disruption this causes and thank you for your understanding,” the carrier added.
No reason for the shutdown was given, though local media reported that the airline has struggled with low ticket sales and negative publicity in recent months.
According to Ríkisútvarpið, Iceland’s public broadcaster, around 400 employees will lose their jobs.
“On this occasion the board and managers of Play emphasize that everything was tried so that the outcome would be different,” Play said in a statement to Ríkisútvarpið. “This decision is by far the most grievous in the situation and it is only taken in light of the fact that other ways were deemed exhausted. The board offers its sincere apologies to all those who suffer negative consequences because of this outcome.”
Play was based in Reykjavík, Iceland, and flew primarily to destinations in western Europe, western North Africa, and the Canary Islands. It began flying nonstop to Boston and Baltimore in 2022, but the Boston service ended earlier this month, and service to Baltimore was due to end in October.
