Flights will operate via Reykjavik from 10 June, with introductory one-way hand-baggage-only fares of £139. They will leave Stansted on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, with a one hour 35 minutes layover in Iceland.

Birgir Jonsson, Play chief executive, said Stewart International offered landing fees up to 80% cheaper than other New York airports. A bus from the airport to New York City takes 90 minutes.

“Though Stewart airport is further away from Manhattan than JFK and Newark, it takes passengers approximately an hour less to get there thanks to the time saved getting through airport customs, compared to the much lengthier processes at JFK and Newark,” Jonsson said.

Play will be the first international carrier at Stewart International airport since 2019, when Norwegian ceased flying there.

Start-up carrier Norse Atlantic will also fly to Stewart this summer. The airport recently completed a $37 million international arrivals area and US Customs expansion. 

New York will be Play’s third US destination, alongside Boston and Baltimore/Washington.

The introductory New York fare is available until 7 February, valid for September and October 2022 departures. Standard fares are from £159, with checked bag fees extra.