Sri Lanka Aviation

AHH! Glad to know that Azur Air will be flying to HRI! Thought they cancelled the plan as per reports from Aviation Voice, but thanks for the clarification! I assume that they will start flights from other cities other than OVB? maybe VKO? Please update if possible

Thank you

A warm Sri Lankan welcome to the private charter flight from the Czech Republic! Operated by Smartwings Airlines, this exclusive journey brings 80 excited travelers to explore the heart of our island through the “Indian Ocean Program.” From the majestic Sigiriya to the ancient wonders of Polonnaruwa, it's four days of unforgettable cultural immersion.

Thanks for sharing the dates with us!

According to Novosibirsk Airport website, Azur Air due to fly HRI on the following dates in 2025/2026 Season:

NOV<>HRI - 25-Dec-2025, 23-Feb-2026 and 07-Mar-2026.

Thinking its 4R-ALH?

British Airways and Qantas focus on high-yielding routes with lots of business traffic that fill their premium cabins. CMB unfortunately is not one of those routes, Traffic to CMB is mainly tourists or VFR (visiting friends and relatives) passengers. Most of these travelers are happy to connect in the middle east (when coming from Europe) or Singapore/Malaysia when traveling from Australia, rather than pay a premium for a non-stop flight.
It is unlikely that we will see BA or QF in CMB in the near future. If Sri Lanka attracts more high-end tourists like the Maldives, a BA flight may become more likely. While a CMB service on QF metal is also unlikely in the near future, Jetstar, QF's low-cost subsidiary is considering direct flights from MEL to CMB next year?
I doubt that UL is reluctant to provide ground handling for any airline serving CMB - it is more revenue for that division.