Cardiff Wales Airport has announced that Icelandic low-cost carrier, PLAY airlines, will be offering direct flights between Cardiff and Keflavik, Iceland, this autumn.
This initiative serves as a significant boost for Welsh tourism, enabling people from both regions to explore each other’s attractions.
Welsh residents now have the opportunity to experience Iceland’s natural wonders, including waterfalls, geysers, hot springs, glaciers, and the Northern Lights. Likewise, Icelandic travellers can discover Wales’ world-class beaches, coastal paths, castles, golf courses, mountains, and shopping venues.
PLAY airlines also offers convenient connections to key cities in the US and Canada through its Keflavik hub. The service is set to commence on October 10, 2024, operating two weekly flights for six weeks, including the half-term getaway.
The timing of the flights coincides with important football fixtures between Iceland and Wales, allowing fans to enjoy both nations’ offerings before and after the games:
* Iceland v Wales on October 11
* Wales v Iceland on November 19
Furthermore, PLAY airlines provides a free stopover in Iceland for passengers traveling to North America, enabling them to explore two countries in one trip.
Lee Smith, Head of Business Development at Cardiff Wales Airport, said: ‘It’s really exciting that PLAY airlines has chosen to link Cardiff with its Icelandic hub, meaning customers can now enjoy easy, low-cost connectivity between Wales, Iceland, the US and Canada. I’m really pleased there’ll be more flights at our national airport this year, which will allow more tourists to visit Wales. The whole airport team is looking forward to welcoming PLAY airlines to Cardiff this October.’
Einar Orn Olafsson, CEO of PLAY airlines, said: ‘We’re thrilled to introduce PLAY’s service to Cardiff. It’s a city rich in culture and vibrancy, perfect for our expanding network. This new route enhances connectivity between two incredible destinations, and we can’t wait to welcome passengers aboard.’
The service will be operated by Airbus A320neos, delivering 20% fuel savings and CO2 reductions compared to previous Airbus aircraft.
