Budget airline Play has cancelled all flights from Stansted and Liverpool airports as it has ceased operation with immediate effect.
The Icelandic airline said it has gone into administration and all flights are cancelled, leaving hundreds of people without jobs and potentially thousands stranded.
Play Airlines customers have been urged to make their own alternative travel arrangements if required.Â
The airline operated a scheduled service between London Stansted and Reykjavik four times a week.
A statement on the airline’s website says: ‘Dear passenger, Fly PLAY hf. has ceased operations, and all flights have been cancelled.
‘We kindly advise you to check flights with other airlines. Some carriers may offer special ‘rescue fares’ considering the circumstances.’
It adds: ‘We are deeply sorry for the disruption this causes and thank you for your understanding.’
Passengers have been told to contact card issuers for tickets booked with credit cards, while those with bookings as part of larger tour packages including accommodation should consult with their travel agent.
Budget airline Play has cancelled all flights from Stansted and Liverpool airports as it has ceased operation with immediate effect
Andrew McConnell, spokesperson at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: ‘It’s always unfortunate when an airline ceases operations, and we understand that Play Airlines’ decision will be unsettling for its employees and customers.
‘UK customers seeking the latest information are advised to visit the Civil Aviation Authority’s website.’
According to reports in local media outlet RUV, ‘400 people are losing their jobs’ with the company ‘trying to pay staff their wages’.
‘All flights were halted immediately,’ they added following the company’s announcement, explaining that ‘thousands of passengers are affected and will either miss out on their journeys or need to find a way back home.’
The board of Play has explained the reasons for the events.
A statement from them said: ‘The board of Fly Play has decided to cease all operations, with all company flights being cancelled.
‘The reasons for the decision are many, including poorer fiscal performance than expected, ticket sale has underperformed in recent weeks following negative media coverage about the company’s management, and disputes among some of the company’s staff about its adjusted policies.’Â
They added: ‘Last fall, Play introduced a new business model that initially inspired significant optimism.
The Icelandic airline said it has gone into administration and all flights are cancelled, leaving hundreds of people without jobs and potentially thousands stranded
‘Unfortunately, it has now become clear that these changes cannot deliver the results needed to overcome the airline’s deep-seated financial troubles.Â
‘In hindsight, these measures would have needed to be implemented much earlier.’Â
Play began its operations in 2019, instigated by WOW Air board members, aiming to offer low-budget travel options to and from Iceland.Â
Its main hub was KeflavÃk International Airport in ReykjavÃk.Â
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Budget European airline goes bust and cancels ALL flights