BWI welcomes launch of new low-fare service to Iceland

Maryland officials last night welcomed PLAY Airlines and the start of its new international service between Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and Reykjavik, Iceland.

The airline will operate daily non-stop services between BWI and Iceland, with convenient connections to more than 20 cities across Europe.

The US airport notes that it is the first North American destination for PLAY.

“The addition of PLAY airline to the lineup at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport shows the growing interest in international travel, and Maryland’s growing popularity as a gateway for business and leisure customers,” said Governor Larry Hogan.

PLAY is a new Icelandic low-cost airline that began operations in June 2021. The carrier utilises efficient Airbus A320neo family aircraft for the new service between BWI Marshall and Iceland.

“We welcome PLAY and celebrate this new international service, which marks another important milestone as we continue to recover from the pandemic,” said BWI’s executive director, Ricky Smith.

“The addition of PLAY enhances our international offerings and will provide more low fare options for our passengers.”

In terms of BWI’s recovery from the global pandemic, it handled 18.8 million passengers in 2021, an increase of 68% compared to the previous year.

Cargo shipments at BWI Marshall grew to more than 618 million pounds in 2021, a new annual record.

In 2022, passenger traffic is expected to further increase as more international and domestic routes are added. Several major capital projects are now underway that will support airline service and enhance the travel experience for airport customers.