Sri Lanka’s new airline ‘Air Ceilao’ prepares for takeoff

Janith Kashan

Air Ceilao, Sri Lanka’s newest airline, is gearing up for its debut with plans to redefine air travel. The carrier will initially focus on key destinations in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, with ambitions to expand to long-haul routes across Europe and Australia in the next phase.

With plans already set in motion, Air Ceilao is currently engaged with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Sri Lanka to secure required regulatory approvals and for other preparations. 

“Starting with a fleet of narrow- and wide-bodied aircraft, the airline will initially connect passengers to key destinations in the Middle East and Asia Pacific,” Air Ceilao announced in a statement.

 
Air Ceilao is also set to become the second privately owned international Airline of Sri Lanka offering a more customer-centric air travel experience and striking a balance between low cost and luxury travel. 

“This bold newcomer will not be just another airline; and aims to become a pioneering force that blends the elegance of full-service airlines with the affordability of low-cost carriers that caters to both the discerning traveler and the budget-conscious flyer. With Air Ceilao, air travel will no longer be a choice between luxury and value—it will be an experience that offers both that truly understands and caters to customers’ every need,” it elaborated. 
Backed by an elite team with extensive experience in the aviation industry, Air Ceilao Chairman Janith Kashan highlighted that Air Ceilao aims to redefine air travel by making air travel not just accessible but extraordinary for everyone.

“We’ve assembled an elite team with extensive experience in the aviation industry. “This, combined with our nationwide recruitment campaign, will ensure that Air Ceilao is staffed by the best and brightest—especially local talent, who are at the heart of our mission,” he said. 

Air Ceilao also eyes to become a major driver of Sri Lanka’s tourism sector boom, by opening up new opportunities and creating jobs that will empower local talent and boost the economy.

In addition, it also plans to play a part in harnessing Sri Lanka’s strategic position as a regional aviation hub and reshape how the world views air travel.