Katunayake Air Service Launched

04-Oct-2025

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Under the leadership of the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation, Bimal Ratnayake, the air service between Katunayake and Colombo was officially inaugurated on October 3, using Beira Lake as a water aerodrome.

As part of the government’s plan to expand domestic air travel and promote tourism, the Colombo–Katunayake service is being reintroduced. Cinnamon Airlines, a subsidiary of the John Keells Group, will operate these flights. Previously, SriLankan Airlines had introduced water-based “Jaladara” flights in 2011–2012, but the service was suspended for safety reasons.

Speaking at the event, Minister Bimal Ratnayake said:
“Through this initiative, we aim to enhance domestic air services and encourage more companies to expand operations to regional airports such as Palaly. The government is committed to providing maximum support for such initiatives.”