Direct Flights Launch Between Samara, Russia, and Mattala, Sri Lanka
2 weeks ago
Direct Flights Launch Between Samara, Russia, and Mattala, Sri Lanka
In a significant development aimed at bolstering bilateral relations and promoting tourism, Russia's Red Wings Airlines has officially inaugurated direct flights connecting Samara and Mattala.
The new route will link Samara’s Kurumoch Airport with Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), and is projected to substantially boost tourist arrivals in Sri Lanka, especially from various regions within Russia. The service will operate throughout the winter season, running six flights per week with daily departures until April of next year.
Russian Federation Ambassador to Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Levan S. Dzhagaryan, announced this exciting air service along with anticipated increases in tourist numbers during his speech at the Gem Sri Lanka 2025 launch event earlier this week.
“I am pleased to share that the influx of Russian visitors will continue to grow. They are not only arriving from Moscow to Colombo, but we have now established direct flights to Mattala from various cities across Russia. This will lead to many Russians enjoying their time in Sri Lanka and taking advantage of the opportunity to purchase exquisite gemstones and jewelry,” the Ambassador stated.
Officials at MRIA estimate that over 200 tourists are expected to arrive daily, potentially resulting in more than 36,000 visitors by the end of April next year. This surge in Russian tourists reinforces Russia's status as one of Sri Lanka’s top tourism markets. The arrival of these visitors is anticipated to provide a significant boost to local businesses, particularly within the Sri Lankan gem industry.
To date, Sri Lanka has welcomed 134,609 tourists from the Russian Federation, making it the third-largest source of international visitors, following India and the United Kingdom.
Red Wings Airlines ranks among Russia's largest carriers, primarily operating out of Moscow's Domodedovo Airport. Located in Hambantota, MRIA serves as a crucial hub for tourists exploring the Southern and Eastern regions of Sri Lanka.
Source: DailyFT