Maldivia launches regular flights to Male from Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR)

COLOMBO : Maldivian national airline, Maldivia commenced international regional flight operations between is main hub at Velana International Airport and Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana from Thursday,March 9

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.

Moving ahead with 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) 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 to re-commence regional flight operations to the Maldives, the Island Aviation Services Limited, wholly owned by the Government of Maldives.

This is a remarkable achievement of the Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana as it is commencing international flight operations after a period of 50 years.

Time Schedule

Q2 944 MLE 0600  RML 0840  SUN / TUE / THU

Q2 945 RML 0940  MLE  1120 SUN / TUE / THU

A media briefing launched at Colombo International Airport ,Rathmalana (CIAR)  State Minister of Aviation and Development  Exports Zones  D.V. Chanka,  Maldives  High Commissioner Omar Abdul Razzak,  Janaka Sri Chaadragupta,   Major General (Rtd) G.A.Chandrasiri Chairman AASL,  Vice Chairman AASL Rajv Sooryarachi,   Ms. Deridre De Livera Director of AASL, Ramly Vilcassim, General Manager  Nawaloka Aviation, Shamith  Wijethilaka  Head Business Nawaloka Aviation were present at  the press conference .

State Minister of  D.V. Chanka said that the Attidiya project of 42 hectares was completed at a value  LKR 42 million,  The Eastern  Taxiway an Apron Overlay project estimated at LKR 200 million is due to be completed shortly.

The is first time a complete Ground handling services will be provided by AASL’s own team. Banking, Hotel andTaxi services , Tourists Board communication and restaurant  catering by the Vanilla pod of Sri Lanka  catering and Duty free shopping would also be made available on Arrival & Departure.

Omar Abdul Razzak High Commissioner Maldives said: “,More than 12,000 Maldivians are residents in and around  Mount Lavniya, Dehiwela, close proximity to CIAR which is an added advantage to theses residents travelers .

Major General (Rtd.) G. A. Chandrasiri, Chairman AASL stated that the strategic location of the airport with proximity to government institutions, embassy offices, prominent business centers, luxury hotels, luxury apartments, condominiums, and shopping malls etc. will enhance the strategic value of the airport. Furthermore, commencing international regional flight operations to the Maldives will contribute immensely towards the development of the airport and the aviation industry of Sri Lanka. With this new development and long-term strategic goals of AASL Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR) will work closely with domestic airline operators, relevant ministries to uplift the airport status and contribute to the socio-economic development of the country.

Ms. Deirdre De Livera, Director AASL for Domestic & Regional Airports CIAR/JIA /BTIA & CATD, said “While we are developing new connections with new markets with Maldivian Air, we are in the process of continuing dialogues with prospective other regional airlines to encourage and facilitate the commencement of regional flight operations from Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana to other prospective destinations in South-India. Further, Ms. Livera stated that the airport will be developed and positioned as a gateway for a new experience for both Sri Lankans as well as international travelers too. Adventure and leisure-seeking enthusiasts could use CIAR as a new gateway to experience the diversity of nature, culture, wildlife and beaches of Sri Lanka by reaching any destination conveniently saving ground travel time.”

Under the strategic initiative to develop the domestic aviation industry, CIAR has introduced charter and or scenic flights directly from Ratmalana to any of Sri Lanka’s 20 airports including waterdromes thereby connecting to any part of the country within a short travel time.  As a part of this initiative, the concept of scenic joy flights have been introduced at BTIA in collaboration with domestic airlines. Joy rides will allow passengers to enjoy the spectacular ariel view of the amazing Batticaloa city and surrounding areas. More such packages are due to be introduced shortly.

Source : https://www.colombotimes.net/maldivia-launches-regular-flights-to-male-from-colombo-international-airport-ratmalana-ciar/