The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and Jazeera Airways, Kuwait’s top low-cost carrier, have discussed the potential resumption of flights between Kuwait City and Colombo.
The meeting also highlighted the potential for extending services to India, offering a boost to regional connectivity and travel options.
The meeting was attended by Barathan Pasupathi, Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways, and Capt. Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of CAASL.
Discussions focused on regulatory facilitation, operational considerations, and strengthening bilateral aviation cooperation in response to the current operational environment affecting aviation activities in Kuwait and the broader region.
During the meeting, Capt. Rambukwella conveyed the Government of Sri Lanka’s commitment to supporting international carriers that contribute to maintaining and enhancing air connectivity with Sri Lanka while ensuring full compliance with international aviation safety, security, and regulatory standards.
Capt. Rambukwella stated that, “The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka warmly welcomes the continued engagement of Jazeera Airways in strengthening air connectivity between Kuwait and Sri Lanka. In my capacity as the Director General of Civil Aviation, I wish to reaffirm CAASL’s commitment to facilitating the necessary regulatory processes, consistent with international civil aviation standards and recommended practices.”
Mr. Pasupathi expressed appreciation for the proactive engagement of the Sri Lankan authorities and noted the airline’s interest in restoring services between Kuwait and Colombo, with potential extensions to India to further enhance connectivity within the region.
Barathan Pasupathi CEO – Jazeera Airways
“We appreciate the openness and prompt engagement of the Sri Lankan authorities in supporting the restoration of services between Kuwait and Colombo, with the possibility of extending connectivity to India. I would like to thank Capt. Rambukwella and his team for their cooperation throughout this process, and we look forward to making a formal announcement once the necessary regulatory processes are completed.”
As part of its operational assessment, Jazeera Airways is evaluating the possibility of operating scheduled services to Colombo while exploring opportunities to extend connectivity onward to India. Such an initiative would support the growing travel demand among the Sri Lankan and Indian diaspora communities in the Gulf region.
The proposed collaboration is also expected to facilitate the safe and timely return of Kuwaiti citizens and residents currently in Sri Lanka or India, thereby supporting passenger mobility during the present period of regional operational disruption, as per the statement.
