Thai Airways to grace the runaways of BIA once again

By Zanita Careem

• Thai Airways to resume Operations between Colombo and Thailand from March 31st, 2024 onwards. The flight ex CMB will depart on 01.04.2024.
• MAC to be the Airline’s forefront as their General Sales Agent within the region for Sri Lanka and Maldives.
• The route will resume with daily flights connecting to more than 50 plus international destinations and additional domestic one

Thai airways ,will re- commence flight operations to Sri Lanka heralding a new chapter in bilateral air connectivity between Thailand and Sri Lanka.

Thai Airways the long standing flight service between Thailand and Sri Lanka which was stalled during the Covid pandemic will be resumed. Mac Holdings are the General Sales Agent with the region for Sri Lanka and Maldives.

This was announced at a press conference held recently at the Hilton Colombo.

Attended by several dignitaries, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Sriripala Ambassador of Thailand in Sri Lanka Paitoon Mahapannaporn, representatives from Thai Air Ways Naritorn Sukkaseam team lead (Western and Middle East) Thai Airways International and Thikhamporn Benyaapikul team, lead Western and Middle East) Thai Air Ways International were present.

The airline operates to more than 60 plus destinations in Asia, Australasia, Middle, Scandinavia and Europe. The route will operate daily flights with an early morning departure out from Colombo arriving in Bangkok in the morning hours itself enabling tourists to gain more time in their respective travelling destination. Passengers who are having connecting flights beyond Thailand too have a smooth and hassle-free transfer with immediate connecting flights.

Speaking at the press conference, Andre Fernando, Managing Director MAC Holdings Private Limited said, “As the trusted Ground Sales & Services Agent (GSA) for Thai Airways, MAC Holdings Private Limited announced the resumption of Thai Airways flights to Sri Lanka after a lapse of four years. The carrier did operate much required passenger converted to cargo flights to CMB during the COVID pandemic period assisting the fashion and medical industries.

This resumption marks a significant milestone and also marks a revitalization of air connectivity between Thailand and Sri Lanka. MAC Holdings is known for thier pivotal role in facilitating seamless travel experiences. Andre Fernando said “with our steadfast commitment to excellence in aviation services, we are proud to support Thai Airways in reconnecting travellers to the wonders of Thailand and beyond. This resumption heralds a new era of opportunities for both leisure and business travellers, reaffirming MAC’s dedication to fostering robust partnerships and enhancing global mobility”.

He also said Thailand being one of the popular leisure destinations in the region with Bangkok being its capital city is well known for nightlife, excellent cuisine and an oasis of history and culture. Bangkok being a vital hub is not only popular for tourism but also religious, economic and trade activities.

Director Sales Thai Aiways Wit Kitchathorn said Thai Airways,which paused operations during covid pandemic will resume direct flight,seven days a week. The airline operates to more than 60 plus local and global destination in Asia,Australasia,Scandinavia and Europe. Sri Lanka is a much loved destination for Sri Lankans for leisure.

He described the resumption as a major stride and a symbol of close ties between Thailand and Sri Lanka for leisure and business travellers.

With daily flights on the agenda travellers are in for a treat as they embark on a journey of exploration and adventure. Tourism is one of the important segments that contributes to the economy of both countries.

This move is a boost for the tourism sector for both countries which has been eagerly awaiting its return by both parties.

With a deep rooted culture, soul satiating delicacies and a tropical weather, Bangkok is a land of unforgettable experiences.An exotic destination, Thailand offers a whimsical dose of everything one expects from their vaccation.

A rich night life, cultural experiences, a shopping hub, there is something for everybody. Thailand is renowned for top temples and monasteries, it offers a unique and memorable sightseeing experience.

With Buddhism at the heart of Thailand and Sri Lanka’s being a strong Buddhist country, there are many Lankan visitors travelling to appreciate the spiritual significance The air connectivity is definetely a benchmark for tourism between both countries.

From left – MAC Holdings Sales Manager – Passenger Dushantha Ranasinghe, Thai Airways International Team Lead Western and Middle East Narintorn Sukkaseam, Thai Airways International Director of Sales Wit Kitchathorn, MAC Holdings Managing Director Andre Fernando, Thai Airways International Team Lead Western and Middle East Thikhamporn Beyaapikul and MAC Holdings Sales/Cargo Asst. Manager Naveenan Soundarapandiyan