Introducing the PLAY Connect Expansion
PLAY Airlines, an Icelandic low-cost carrier, is taking a significant step forward in expanding its service offerings through the enhancement of its PLAY Connect online booking platform. The recent addition of easyJet, another renowned budget airline, marks a pivotal development in PLAY’s strategy to broaden its network and offer more comprehensive travel solutions to its customers.
This collaboration has been facilitated by Dohop, a specialist in developing cutting-edge interlining technology. Based in Reykjavik, Iceland, Dohop has been at the forefront of providing alternate interline solutions that enable efficient partnerships between various airlines and ground travel providers.
Understanding the Role of Dohop’s Technology
Dohop’s platform is instrumental in enabling airlines like PLAY to offer enhanced connectivity through their services. It manages complex logistics that allow customers to book flights involving multiple airlines in a single transaction. The technology supports over 85 airlines and an array of travel providers, including prominent names such as Transavia, Air France, Vueling, and Air Transat.
The essence of interlining, facilitated by Dohop, lies in pairing two different itineraries under one booking reference, simplifying the travel process for passengers and offering a seamless travel experience.
Benefits for PLAY Airlines and Its Customers
The integration of easyJet into the PLAY Connect platform significantly widens the range of available destinations, offering connections to over 350 unique city pairs. This strategic move not only enhances PLAY’s operational capabilities but also enriches the customer experience by providing more flexible travel options across Europe and beyond.
Tatiana Shirokova, Head of Distribution at PLAY Airlines, emphasized the transformative impact of Dohop’s technology, stating, “With Dohop’s alternative interlining technology, we are not just expanding our network; we’re transforming the way our customers travel.” This integration assures a seamless and cost-effective travel experience for PLAY’s customers.
Response from EasyJet
Dawn Hardwick, easyJet’s Global Lead Strategic Airline Partnerships and Connectivity, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting easyJet’s commitment to ease of travel and value. “With our strong presence at Europe’s leading airports, this partnership allows us to offer PLAY Airlines’ passengers greater access to our extensive route network,” she noted, underscoring the benefits of enhanced connectivity and competitive fares.
Future Outlook for PLAY Airlines
Since commencing operations in June 2021, PLAY Airlines has shown remarkable growth. As of 2023, the airline boasts a fleet of 10 Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft and has transported 1.5 million passengers with an average load factor of 83.4%. Looking forward, PLAY plans to further expand its partnerships to include airlines from the USA, Canada, the Middle East, LATAM, and Asia, aiming to construct a truly global network.