Mr. Santisuk Klongchaiya, CEO of Thai AirAsia, said Sri Lanka is a country of many alluring and new travel experiences for Thai visitors and that the airline has long seen its potential for growth. The tourism in general has already shown remarkable expansion with more travel information readily available for access than ever. For travellers looking for a novel experience, AirAsia believes Sri Lanka is the destination that they have been searching for and that its latest route will prove popular among both Thais and foreigners. At the same time, Sri Lankans have shown an increased interest in Thailand for its shopping and vibrant sightseeing, and the route will launch just in time for peak travel season in Sri Lanka in which we hope our entry will receive an enthusiastic feedback in the market.
AirAsia has already operated flights to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo for close to 10 years, flying Kuala Lumpur-Colombo, and as such has established a firm presence in the market. The airline intends to invest further in Sri Lanka and make itself the leading choice for Sri Lankan travellers.
"Sri Lanka is a popular destination for Buddhists globally, drawing faithful to its sacred sites and famous religious destinations, many of which have been registered as World Heritage Sites. Chief among these sites is the Temple of the Tooth of Buddha in the city of Kandy, which contains one of only two relics of the Buddha's teeth. The country also contains practically untouched natural areas and is home to long standing cultures. We would like to invite everyone to visit the country and gain a new perspective on Sri Lanka," Mr. Santisuk said.
On top of its importance among Buddhists in Asia, Sri Lanka also features impressively pure natural destinations. The train ride between Kandy and Ella is considered one the world's most beautiful as it takes riders through valleys and tea estates, themselves attractive to tourists to looking to experience authentic Ceylon tea. Lovers of the tea can sip it in the mountains of Nuwara Eliya. Adventurers can head to the coastal city of Galle to see hints of its Dutch influenced past in the many buildings that were constructed during a century long colonization. From there, travellers can witness the country's unique stilt fishing tradition or try to see one of the country's many leopards on a safari of Yala National Park.
AirAsia's Bangkok Don Mueang-Colombo, Sri Lanka direct flight will operate 4 times a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Flight FD140 will depart Don Mueang Airport (DMK) at 20.20 hrs to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, Sri Lanka at 22.20 hrs. Flight FD141 departs Colombo at 23.20 hrs to arrive in Don Mueang at 04.25 hrs the following day. During its introduction, the airline will offer to AirAsia BIG members at a promotional fare starting from only THB 1,990* per trip and to non-members from only THB 2,030* per trip. Book today to 4 November 2018 for travel from 14 Decembe, 2018 - 29 March 2019 at www.airasia.com. Flights begin service 14 December 2018.
*One-way all-in fare inclusive of only taxes and fees. Stated promo fare applies to AirAsia BIG Loyalty members only. Terms and conditions apply.