SriLankan Airlines Named “Best Airline for South Asia”

29 July 2025 – ‘SriLankan Airlines’ crowning as the Best Airline for South Asia at the International Tourism Conclave and Travel Awards in New Delhi is no overnight success, it’s the culmination of decades of evolution, government support, and a steadfast commitment to service excellence

A Journey from Air Lanka to Flag Carrier

Originally launched on 10 December 1979 as Air Lanka, the airline took its first flight with a single leased aircraft. In 1998, a strategic partnership with Emirates rebranded it to SriLankan Airlines, bringing in fresh livery and operational expertise. By 2008, the Sri Lankan government reacquired full ownership, re‑affirming its status as the nation’s flag carrier. Since then, it has joined the Oneworld alliance (May 2014), expanded to 37 destinations, and logged over 560 weekly flights across Asia and beyond

Fleet Modernization under the New Government

In April 2024, SriLankan Airlines welcomed its first new wide‑body aircraft in seven years, an Airbus A330-200, boosting long‑haul capacity and passenger comfort. Just last month, it added another A330-300 to grow its fleet to 23 aircraft, enhancing connectivity to key markets in India and the Middle East EconomyNext Travel And Tour World. Meanwhile, the government earmarked LKR 20 billion (USD 67.5 million) in the 2025 Budget to stabilize finances, repay loans, and underpin future modernization efforts.

Service Upgrades and Digital Advancements

Beyond metal and engines, SriLankan has invested in passenger experience: retrofitted cabins now feature Thales AVANT inflight entertainment, high‑speed WiFi on wide‑body jets (making it South Asia’s first airline to offer onboard internet), and the introduction of Premium Economy on long‑haul routes. Their mobile app and self‑service kiosks simplify booking and check‑in, reflecting a broader push toward seamless, tech‑driven travel.

Why Trust SriLankan Airlines?

Safety and Reliability – A break‑even financial year in 2022–23 and a solid operating income testify to sound management and consistent operations Wikipedia.
Global Standards – As a Oneworld member, SriLankan adheres to rigorous alliance safety and service protocols, granting access to over 1,000 destinations worldwide.
Authentic Hospitality – Built on the warmth of Sri Lankan culture, cabin crews are renowned for genuine care, earning repeat traveller loyalty.
Award‑Winning Excellence – The recent “Best Airline for South Asia” title underscores its leadership in network reach, in‑flight comfort, and customer satisfaction

Whether you’re connecting through Colombo to the Maldives or flying direct to European hubs, SriLankan Airlines blends a storied past with modern innovation, making it not just a carrier, but a trusted ambassador of Sri Lanka’s hospitality in the skies.