SriLankan Airlines is set to enhance its Australia operations by increasing its weekly service between Colombo and Melbourne to 10 flights, effective 2 August 2026. The addition of three new weekly frequencies comes in response to rising demand and evolving market dynamics.
This expansion underscores Australia’s growing importance as a key inbound tourism market for Sri Lanka, driven by leisure travel as well as increased visits by family and friends.
The newly introduced flights will operate every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, departing Colombo as UL608 at 14:10 hrs and arriving in Melbourne at 04:30 hrs the following day. The return service, UL609, will depart Melbourne every Wednesday, Friday, and Monday at 06:00 hrs, arriving in Colombo at 12:15 hrs, offering convenient onward connections across the airline’s network. The schedule is designed to maximize leisure travel time in Sri Lanka while improving connectivity for passengers traveling onwards to India via Colombo.
In addition to these new frequencies, the airline will continue its daily UL604 service, departing Colombo at 00:20 hrs and arriving in Melbourne at 14:40 hrs, with the return UL605 departing Melbourne at 16:10 hrs and arriving in Colombo at 22:25 hrs. These services provide seamless connections to key destinations across India and beyond.
The increased flight frequency offers Sri Lankan travelers greater flexibility and convenience when planning trips between the two countries. It is particularly beneficial for the Sri Lankan diaspora in Australia, enabling more frequent visits home while maintaining close family ties.
Students studying in Australia will also benefit from the expanded schedule, as it better aligns with academic calendars and holiday periods, making travel more accessible and manageable.
Furthermore, the enhanced connectivity strengthens Colombo’s position as a regional aviation hub, allowing Indian travelers to seamlessly connect to Melbourne via Sri Lanka with efficient transit options.
For more information and bookings, passengers can visit the airline’s official website or follow its social media channels.
Ceylon Chamber of Commerce Hosts High-Level Evening with Diplomats
The Ceylon Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a high-level networking evening at Cinnamon Grand, bringing together Sri Lanka’s business, diplomatic, and government communities. Hon. Arun Hemachandra attended as the Chief Guest.
The event welcomed Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Consuls General representing nearly 50 countries, alongside representatives from key state institutions. It provided a unique platform for the private sector and diplomatic corps to engage directly, exchange insights, and explore avenues for collaboration.
Addressing the gathering, Hon. Arun Hemachandra highlighted Sri Lanka’s steady economic recovery, noting growth across agriculture, industry, and services, supported by strengthened fiscal management. He also underscored the Ceylon Chamber’s pivotal role in bridging the private sector with international partners, emphasizing that public–private–diplomatic collaboration is vital for expanding trade, promoting exports, and fostering sustainable development.
Krishan Balendra, Chairperson of the Chamber, stressed the importance of such engagements in connecting businesses with global markets. “Events like this create valuable opportunities for our members to explore new markets, diversify exports, and establish long-term partnerships,” he noted.
The sustained engagement of foreign missions with the Chamber reflects the diplomatic community’s recognition of the Ceylon Chamber as a key bridge between Sri Lanka’s business sector and the international community.
The evening concluded with an extended networking session, allowing participants to forge meaningful connections with diplomats and government representatives, strengthening opportunities for Sri Lankan businesses and international partnerships.
SriLankan Airlines Boosts Australia Connectivity with 14 Weekly Flights
