The inaugural flight of a new low-cost airline service from Abu Dhabi to Katunayake made a successful touchdown at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) on December 8. Air Arabia’s flight 3L-197, carrying 158 passengers and a dedicated crew of 8, landed promptly at 8:00 pm local time.
This milestone marks the beginning of a regular schedule, with these budget-friendly flights arriving at BIA every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday at 8:00 pm. Departures for the return journey to Abu Dhabi are scheduled for 8:30 pm on the same days, providing passengers with convenient options for travel. A distinguished gathering welcomed the first flight, including Sri Lanka’s Ambassador to the UAE Udaya Indrarathna, Vice Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Private Limited A. Galketiya and Head of Air Navigation Services Nishan Abeywardena.
Representatives from the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau also extended a warm welcome to the passengers and crew.
