COLOMBO: The Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana Re-commenced Scheduled International Regional Flight Operations After Five Decades Moving ahead with the “Vistas of Prosperity and Splendour” on Sunday, March 27  

The long-term objectives of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited to develop the airports and aviation industry of Sri Lanka, Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR) marked a milestone event commencing “Scheduled International Regional Flight Operations” after five decades.

 In parallel to the commencement of flight operations, “the New Taxiway and Overlaid Apron” was declared open at Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR) to facilitate smooth flight operations. Island Aviation Services Limited, a wholly owned by the Government of Maldives, Maldivian national airlines commenced international regional flight operations between its main hub at Velana International Airport and Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana.

The inaugural flight from Velana International Airport to Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana, DHB 300, 50 seater aircraft touched ground at 09.00 AM and was welcomed by a celebratory water cannon salute upon arrival followed by an inaugural ceremony to welcome the dignitaries and the guests.

The VIP’s present to greet the flight included Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth & Sports, Hon. Tharaka Balasuriya, State Minister of Regional Co-operation, His Excellency Omar Abdul Razzak Ambassador of the Republic of Maldives to Sri Lanka, Hon. D. V. Chanaka, State Minister of Aviation and Export Zones Development, Major General (Rtd.) G. A. Chandrasiri, Chairman AASL, Board of Directors and senior officials of Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, and the officials of Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

Page 2 of 5 AASL implemented an aggressive strategy to utilize its resources effectively to contribute to the development of the aviation industry in Sri Lanka. As a result of pursuing the opportunities AASL was able to re-commence regional flight operations to the Maldives, connecting Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana after a period of 50 years. Initially, the airline will operate scheduled flights, (Dash-8 aircraft with 50 seats) between Sri Lanka and the Maldives (Colombo) three times a week and the frequency will be increased up to five from May 2022 onwards.