Swiss International Airlines resumes its winter flight schedule to Colombo

Swiss International Airlines, a member of the Lufthansa Group resumed operations to Colombo on the 5th of November.

Aviation and Export Zones Development State Minister D.V Chanaka said  the commencement of operation by Swiss International Airlines between Colombo and Zurich would help boost the tourism industry  in  Sri Lanka in the aftermath of  Covid 19 . pandemic The State Minister said resumption of the airline’s winter flights scheduled to Colombo would strengthen cooperation in the  trade, investment, financial, educational and cultural areas between the two nations.”We have been continuing our efforts to make sure that our airports are operated in in compliance with the international standards of health and safety”, State Minister Chanaka said.The State Minister  along with Swiss envoy in Colombo  Dominic Furgler were at the Bandaranaike International Airport to receive the inaugural flight. Speaking to the media on the occasion, the State Minister said the government is planning  to upgrade the aviation industry of Sri Lanka by introducing new technology and digitalizing Sri Lankan airports to give a seamless passenger experience.The inaugural flight from Zurich to Colombo, LX 8064 operated by an Airbus 340 touched ground at 7:45 AM and was welcomed by a celebratory water cannon salute upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport followed by a traditional Kandyan dance performance and an inaugural ceremony to welcome the guests.

Ninety-five passengers arrived on this flight. The weekly service to Colombo every Friday with a capacity of 314 seats will feature 27 seats in Business Class and 287 in Economy. The economy cabin includes 70 seats with an extra recline and legroom. .The distance from Zurich to Colombo is 8023 kilometers / 4332 nautical miles with an estimated flight time of nine hours and fifty-six minutes. Zurich serves as a convenient hub to the rest of Europe and the Americas and Swiss is offering attractive/competitive fares on its services.