By: Staff Writer
June 05, Colombo (LNW): David Peiris Aviation (DP Aviation) has initiated its first trial flight service from Colombo international airport in Ratmalana to the Jaffna International Airport in Palaly.
This move is part of a broader Government vision to expand local aviation infrastructure and improve regional connectivity. The trial flight, which took place on Monday (2) under the supervision of officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), successfully landed at the Jaffna International Airport at 1.05 p.m..
According to the CAASL’s Department Head, this marks the revival of Colombo – Jaffna air services after a two-year hiatus. “Our goal is to develop strong domestic flight operations across the country. Today’s qualification flight, conducted by DP Aviation, met all regulatory and safety standards,” he said.
The Colombo – Jaffna service, currently in its trial phase, is expected to transition into a regular commercial service soon. DP Aviation has confirmed plans to operate flights three days a week.
Each flight will accommodate 11 passengers with a baggage allowance of seven kilogrammes per person. The total travel time for a one-way journey is nearly 1 hour and 10 minutes, with a round-trip fare set at Rs 68,000.
Discussions are also underway to extend services from Colombo to Jaffna via BIA in Katunayake. The necessary preparations at Katunayake are nearing completion and CAASL has expressed readiness to approve the route upon formal application from the airline.
DP Aviation also revealed its long-term goal of offering international connectivity via Jaffna. This would enable passengers to travel abroad from the Northern region, potentially transforming Jaffna into a new hub for international travel in the future.
The captain of the test flight confirmed that all operational requirements had been met and expressed the airline’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity. “We are ready to expand our services further and will soon submit applications to operate from Katunayake as well,” he added.
