Wednesday, December 11, 2024
PLAY Airlines carried a total of 99,393 passengers in November 2024, marking a decrease from the 107,236 passengers recorded in November 2023. This 17% capacity reduction aligns with PLAY’s strategic move to lease one of its aircraft to GlobalX in Miami and adjust its route network to better align with seasonal demand trends. Despite the reduced capacity, PLAY achieved a record-breaking load factor of 82.4% in November 2024, significantly higher than the 74.5% recorded in November 2023. This represents the best November performance in PLAY’s history.
In November 2024, passenger distribution included 29.6% traveling from Iceland, 38.9% traveling to Iceland, and 31.5% connecting passengers (VIA).
PLAY also experienced year-over-year growth in the number of Icelandic passengers. A total of 29,400 passengers departed from Iceland with PLAY in November 2024, compared to 28,095 in November 2023, reflecting a 4.65% increase. Similarly, the number of passengers traveling to Iceland rose to 38,659 in November 2024, up from 35,059 in November 2023—a growth of 10.27%.
PLAY’s on-time performance also improved, reaching 90.7% in November 2024, compared to 88.9% in November 2023.
Black Friday Success and Revenue Growth
PLAY reported strong results from its Black Friday campaign, which targeted markets in North America, Europe, and Iceland. Revenue from the campaign grew by 10% compared to the previous year, and forward bookings for late 2024 and 2025 are showing positive momentum.
November 2024 marked the third consecutive month of year-over-year growth in unit revenue, following a challenging summer. As highlighted in previous updates, the unit revenue outlook for December 2024 and into 2025 remains optimistic.
Einar Örn Ólafsson, CEO of PLAY:
“We continue to see positive results from our strategic decision to adjust our business model, focusing more on leisure destinations in Southern Europe and scaling back on North American routes. It is encouraging to see 7% year-on-year growth in passengers traveling both to and from Iceland with us, despite 17% reduction in our capacity. This reflects the value that both Icelanders and visitors see in PLAY, where they can travel for less with a carrier known for excellent service, a young Airbus fleet and an enviable on-time performance.
This period of transformation has been demanding, but my coworkers at PLAY have risen to every challenge with professionalism and dedication. Their commitment to making PLAY the airline of choice for travelers is evident, and I am confident we are moving in the right direction.
As the busy holiday season approaches, we remain focused on delivering exceptional service to passengers traveling for leisure or to spend time with loved ones. We look forward to this festive season and I personally can’t wait for this robust company to show its strength in 2025.”
