WEAIR, a new entrant into Sri Lanka’s aviation sector, is set to commence operations in May 2026, aiming to strengthen the country’s air freight capacity and enhance regional connectivity, Daily News reported on 12 April 2026. Backed by Luxembourg based IOTC Investments and led by Sri Lankan born Group CEO Thinesh Ganeshakumaran, WEAIR is positioned as a next-generation cargo airline designed to address growing demand across key trade corridors.
Industry analysts said that WEAIR’s launch comes at a pivotal moment, as air cargo demand across South Asia and the Middle East continues to rise-driven by rapid e-commerce expansion and increasing regional trade flows. WEAIR plans to establish a regional network connecting Colombo with major destinations across South Asia, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, leveraging the island’s strategic geographic location at the crossroads of global trade routes.
The airline will begin operations with a Boeing 737-800 freighter and has outlined a phased fleet expansion strategy. A second aircraft is expected to be inducted by December 2026, followed by additional aircraft in 2027 and 2028. Strengthening its leadership team, WEAIR has appointed Aruna Ratnayake as Chief Commercial Officer, bringing over four decades of aviation experience.
Indrajit Joseph will be Chief Marketing Officer, contributing extensive expertise in marketing and corporate leadership.
Looking ahead, WEAIR has outlined plans for a potential listing on the Colombo Stock Exchange by 2029.
The company is also exploring expansion into passenger operations as part of its long-term growth strategy.
Note from Aviation Voice
Regarding this development, Aviation Voice reached out to a senior official of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), who noted that the relevant regulatory process has yet to commence.
Similar situations have been observed in the past, including Peace Air in 2018 and more recently, Air Ceilao in August 2024, where progress has yet to materialize.
