Vietjet Air Sri Lanka preparations advanced with a high-level meeting between the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and senior executives of the Vietnamese low-cost carrier ahead of its planned entry into the Sri Lankan market.
Vietjet Air Sri Lanka entry discussed during high-level CAASL meeting on connectivity
The discussions focused on operational readiness and strengthening aviation connectivity between Sri Lanka and Vietnam, marking another step toward expanding regional air travel opportunities.
The meeting was attended by CAASL Director General and Chief Executive Officer Capt. Daminda Rambukwella, Airport and Economic Regulation Director Asanga Liyanarachchi, Vietjet Air Vice President – Commercial Ta Huu Thanh, and International Sales Director Nguyen Chi Duc.
Representatives of Andrew The Aviation Company, Mahen Kariyawasan and Kemin Perera, also participated in the discussions as preparations continue for the airline’s launch in Sri Lanka.
The talks centred on the operational and regulatory arrangements required for Vietjet Air Sri Lanka services, while also exploring ways to strengthen aviation links between the two countries. Improved connectivity is expected to support both business and leisure travel, creating new opportunities for tourism, trade and investment.
The planned launch comes at a time when Sri Lanka is seeking to expand its international aviation network and attract more visitors from fast-growing Asian markets. Enhanced air connectivity has been identified as a key driver of tourism growth, with regional routes becoming increasingly important amid shifting global travel patterns.
Vietnam has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing tourism and business destinations, while Sri Lanka continues to strengthen economic and tourism ties with countries across the region. Direct or improved air links are expected to make travel more convenient for tourists, business travellers and investors while encouraging greater people-to-people exchanges.
The involvement of the Civil Aviation Authority highlights the importance of ensuring regulatory compliance and operational readiness before the airline begins commercial operations. Close coordination between aviation authorities and airline operators is essential to facilitate safe, efficient and reliable services.
Industry observers also view the planned launch as a positive development for Sri Lanka’s aviation sector, as increased airline competition can improve connectivity, expand travel choices and support the country’s tourism recovery.
The new Sri Lanka Vietnam flights are expected to strengthen bilateral relations by making travel between the two countries more accessible. Improved connectivity could also encourage greater collaboration in tourism promotion, business partnerships and trade activities.
As preparations continue, both Sri Lankan and Vietnamese aviation stakeholders are working closely to finalise the necessary arrangements for the airline’s market entry. The discussions reflect a shared commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting long-term growth in passenger travel between Sri Lanka and Vietnam.
The Vietjet Air Sri Lanka launch is expected to become another milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its international aviation network while supporting tourism, commerce and broader economic cooperation with Southeast Asia.