Why Choose Domestic Flights in Sri Lanka?

• Time Savings: Sri Lanka might seem small, but traversing its winding roads can be time-consuming. Domestic flights drastically cut down travel time, allowing you to hop between destinations in a fraction of the hours it would take by car or train. For instance, a drive from Colombo to Jaffna can take 8-9 hours, while a flight is a mere 70-75 minutes!
• Unparalleled Views: Flying over Sri Lanka offers a unique vantage point. Imagine soaring above the emerald tea plantations of the hill country, spotting ancient stupas from the sky, or witnessing the stunning coastline from above. The journey itself becomes a memorable experience.
• Convenience and Comfort: Skip the cramped cars and bumpy rides. Domestic flights offer a comfortable and hassle-free way to travel, with streamlined check-in processes at smaller domestic airports.
• Access to Remote Areas: Certain parts of Sri Lanka, especially those with challenging terrain, become easily accessible via domestic flights, opening up opportunities to explore less-trodden paths.

Domestic Airlines and Operators

Several operators offer domestic air travel in Sri Lanka, utilizing both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Some of the prominent ones include:

• Cinnamon Air: A well-known operator offering daily scheduled flights and charter services to various destinations using Cessna Grand Caravan amphibian and wheeled aircraft. They operate from a dedicated domestic terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo). Popular destinations include Kandy, Sigiriya, Koggala, Trincomalee, and Batticaloa.
  

  Book Cinnamon Air Online

• DP Aviation: Operates Cessna 208B Grand Caravan aircraft for both scheduled and charter flights, connecting Ratmalana International Airport to destinations like Jaffna, Koggala, Sigiriya, and Trincomalee.

  Currently, online booking is not directly available. Please contact their hotline at +94770555444 or their authorized booking agent, PPT Travels, at +94775755175 for bookings. Their website DP Aviation Website may have updates.
  

• Helitours: The commercial arm of the Sri Lanka Air Force, offering transfers between airfields and some scheduled flights.

  For bookings, please visit their website: Book Helitours Online or contact their hotline at +94 113 144244.
  

• Other Charter Services: Several other companies offer charter flights and scenic tours by both planes and helicopters, providing flexibility for personalized itineraries. You may need to contact these services directly for booking information. Some operators include Simplifly and Senok Air.

Popular Domestic Flight Routes

While the network is continuously developing, some popular domestic flight routes include:

• Colombo (Ratmalana/Bandaranaike) to Jaffna: Connecting the capital region to the northern peninsula, significantly reducing travel time.
• Colombo to Kandy (Polgolla/Victoria Reservoir): Offering quick access to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka nestled in the hills.
• Colombo to Sigiriya: Providing a swift route to the iconic rock fortress and surrounding cultural sites. Flights may even offer scenic aerial views of the rock.
• Colombo to Koggala/Galle: Linking the capital to the southern coastal belt, known for its beaches and historical Dutch fort.
• Colombo to Trincomalee: Connecting to the eastern coast with its beautiful beaches and historical significance.
• Colombo to Batticaloa: Providing access to the eastern province and its unique culture.
• Colombo to Weerawila/Hambantota: Offering a gateway to the southern wildlife parks like Yala and Udawalawe.

Domestic Airports in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka has a network of both international and domestic airports and waterdromes. Some key domestic airports include:

• Anuradhapura Airport (ACJ): Serving the ancient city of Anuradhapura in the North Central Province.
• Sigiriya Airport (GIU): Located in Dambulla, providing access to Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.
• Koggala Airport (KCT): Situated near Galle on the southern coast.
• Hingurakgoda Airport (HIM): Located in the North Central Province.
• China Bay Airport (TRR): Serving Trincomalee on the east coast.
• Batticaloa International Airport (BTC): Located on the eastern coast.
• Jaffna International Airport (JAF): Situated in the northern peninsula.
• Weerawila Airport (WRZ): Near Hambantota in the Southern Province, providing access to wildlife parks.
• Ratmalana International Airport (RML): While having international status, it primarily serves as a key hub for domestic flights, especially for smaller operators.

Additionally, seaplane services utilize various water bodies like the Bentota River, Kandy's Polgolla Reservoir, and Castlereigh Reservoir, offering unique access to certain locations and stunning scenic flights. Check the websites of individual operators for seaplane booking options.

Tips for Domestic Air Travel in Sri Lanka

• Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to book your domestic flights in advance to secure your preferred dates and times.
• Check Baggage Allowances: Be aware of the baggage restrictions, which might be lower than international flights, especially on smaller aircraft. Typically, checked baggage limits can be around 7 kg, with possibilities for prior approval for extra baggage.
• Arrive Early: While domestic airport procedures might be quicker than international ones, it's still recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
• Carry Identification: Ensure you have a valid form of identification, such as your passport or national identity card, for check-in.
• Confirm Flight Details: Always reconfirm your flight timings and any potential changes with the airline closer to your travel date.
• Consider Charter Options for Flexibility: If you're traveling in a group or have specific destinations in mind, exploring charter flight options might offer more flexibility in terms of timings and routes. Contact operators directly for charter inquiries.
• Enjoy the Views! Don't forget to keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking aerial views of Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes.

Conclusion

Domestic air travel in Sri Lanka offers a fantastic way to experience the island's beauty efficiently and comfortably. Whether you're looking to save time, enjoy stunning perspectives, or access remote corners, consider incorporating domestic flights into your Sri Lankan itinerary for a truly unforgettable journey through paradise. With online booking options now available for several operators, planning your aerial adventure has never been easier. As the domestic aviation sector continues to grow, it promises even greater connectivity and convenience for exploring all that this captivating island has to offer.

Photo Credit : Cinnamon Air