After a four-year hiatus, Thai Airways made a triumphant return with its inaugural flight TG 307 landing at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake at 11:55 p.m. on Sunday.
The resumption of this flight route marks a significant milestone in the revitalisation of tourism between Thailand and Sri Lanka. Originating from Bangkok, Thailand, the flight carried around 150 foreign tourists, including Thai nationals eager to explore the beauty and culture of Sri Lanka.
According to Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd., (AASL) flights between Thailand and Sri Lanka are now operating daily, signalling a renewed era of connectivity between the two countries.
Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, personally welcomed the flight and its passengers at the arrival terminal. To commemorate the occasion and extend a warm Sri Lankan welcome, AASL organised a special cultural dance performance for the arriving passengers. Minister de Silva, accompanied by Thai Airways Chief Pilot Captain Ophad Sankrung, participated in a celebratory moment as they jointly cut a cake to mark the aircraft’s arrival. AASL Chairman Eng. Athula Galketiya and several other officials were also present at the event, underscoring the significance of this momentous occasion.
Addressing the gathering, Minister de Silva highlighted the positive trajectory of tourism in Sri Lanka in 2024, citing the arrival of over 600,000 tourists during the first quarter.
He expressed confidence that the resumption of daily flights by Thai Airways would serve as a catalyst for further increasing tourist arrivals.
Minister de Silva also proposed the possibility of reduced airfare to attract more Sri Lankan travellers to visit Thailand, fostering enhanced bilateral tourism ties between the two countries. The strategic initiative aims to capitalise on the growing interest in travel and tourism while promoting cultural exchange and economic cooperation.
MAC Holdings Ltd., is appointed as the General Sales Agent (GSA) representing the airline in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Thai Airways operates flights to key destinations across Europe, Australia, Asia, and within Thailand.
AASL expressed its delight in welcoming Thai Airways back to its main gateway.
Sri Lanka Travel Feneteko