Play's European Flights Start at Just $130 One-Way

With international airfares on the rise, Play's St. Patrick’s Day sale offers a great opportunity. The budget airline from Iceland has slashed prices on its already affordable flights to Europe from its four U.S. hubs.

Now through March 17 (St. Patrick’s Day), travelers can enjoy 20 percent off Play's fares for journeys between April 1 and May 31, 2023 (including Memorial Day weekend), as well as from September 1 to October 31, 2023. Use the promo code LUCKYPLAY when booking online to claim the discount.

This promotion is available for all four of Play’s U.S. hubs:

• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• New York Stewart International Airport (SWF)
• Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)

The airline offers flights to a variety of European hubs, including Barcelona, Berlin, Copenhagen, Dublin, Lisbon, London, Paris, Reykjavík, and Stockholm. It also serves destinations like Alicante, Malaga, and Tenerife in Spain, Gothenburg in Sweden, and Bologna in Italy.

Founded in 2019, Play commenced its transatlantic operations in December 2021. This no-frills, low-cost carrier draws comparisons to the now-defunct Wow Air, as many of its executives, including CEO Birgir Jónsson, previously worked there. What can you expect when flying with Play? We recently reviewed the experience, featuring bright-red narrow-body Airbus planes arranged in six rows with three seats on either side of the aisle. There is only one class: economy. The seats come with adjustable padded headrests but lack power outlets, Wi-Fi, or seatback screens.

Be prepared for several additional fees, ranging from $4 to $50 for seat selection, and charges for carry-on and checked luggage. One personal item is included with your flight, but carry-on bags and meals are additional. A single checked bag weighing up to 44 pounds costs between $32 and $57 if booked online in advance (prices vary by date and route), rising to as much as $79 if paid at the airport during check-in. Changing your flight dates will set you back $78. If issues arise, there's no dedicated customer service line; you'll need to reach out to the airline via Facebook, WhatsApp, or email.

Barbara Peterson, our special airline correspondent, concluded that “if your goal is simply to find a more affordable flight to Europe, Play will meet that need. Given the soaring prices for transatlantic flights this year, this newcomer provides a compelling alternative and also offers the chance to explore Iceland or spend a few days there on the way to other destinations.” Play flights connect through Iceland.

Reporting contributed by Barbara Peterson.