Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar Airways has officially commenced its new direct service between Melbourne and Colombo, with its inaugural flight arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) on August 25.
Jetstar flight JQ5, operated by a Boeing B787-8 Dreamliner, arrived at Katunayake, carrying 271 passengers and 13 crew members from Melbourne. The aircraft received a traditional water salute upon arrival, marking the airline’s entry into the Sri Lankan market.
The new route will operate three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, providing a direct connection between Melbourne and Colombo. The flight has a scheduled duration of approximately 10 hours.
A special inaugural ceremony was held at the Silk Route at BIA to mark the launch of Jetstar’s new service and its expansion into Sri Lanka.
The new connection is expected to strengthen air connectivity between Sri Lanka and Australia, while providing travellers with an additional low-fare option between the two destinations.
Photo credits: AASL
