Indigo’s new route to Jafna from Chennai to boost travel between India and Sri Lanka

Reading Time: 2 minutes

IndiGo launches daily direct flights between Chennai and Jaffna starting September 1, 2024, boosting connectivity and supporting Sri Lanka’s tourism revival.

IndiGo, India’s preferred airline, has announced the addition of Jaffna, Sri Lanka, to its international route network. Starting September 1, 2024, the airline will offer non-stop daily flights between Chennai and Jaffna. Jaffna becomes IndiGo’s second destination in Sri Lanka after Colombo, marking its 34th international and 122nd overall destination within the expansive 6E network.

This strategic move aims to strengthen the cultural and trade ties between India and Sri Lanka, characterized by cooperation in commerce, infrastructure development, and air connectivity. Flight bookings will open on August 1, 2024.

India consistently ranks as the top primary market for international tourist arrivals to Sri Lanka. In June 2024, Indian arrivals accounted for 25.2% of the total, with over 28,631 travelers, compared to a 26.7% share in June 2023, with around 26,830 passengers. With growing interest in travel to Jaffna, IndiGo’s new route will enhance regional accessibility. The addition of Jaffna will complement IndiGo’s existing flights to Colombo, providing travelers with an additional access point in Sri Lanka.

Mr. Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, said, “We are pleased to announce Jaffna as our new destination in Sri Lanka, which will serve as a catalyst in enhancing trade & tourism between our two countries. In addition to these daily flights from Chennai to Jaffna, we also offer 30 weekly frequencies from 4 points in India to Colombo. This 75-minute flight would significantly reduce travel time, making Jaffna, Sri Lanka even more accessible. We are continuously working towards providing our customers with superior connectivity and enhanced accessibility to explore new horizons with our ever-expanding range of travel options.”

The demand for travel between Chennai and Jaffna is clear, with over 21,000 passengers flying this route in just nine months last year. IndiGo’s new direct flight provides a timely boost to this resurgence, offering seamless connectivity and tapping into a key market for Sri Lanka’s tourism revival. India and Sri Lanka share a profound legacy of intellectual, cultural, religious, and trade relations that have flourished for over 2,500 years.

Jaffna, located in the northern province of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history and cultural significance. Its vibrant Tamil heritage is reflected in its traditions, festivals, and historical landmarks, showcasing the resilience and diversity of its people. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as the Jaffna Fort, an architectural testament to the region’s colonial past, and the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a revered Hindu temple with significant religious and cultural importance. The community’s resilience, cultural treasures, and culinary delights make Jaffna a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic and enriching experience.

Flight Schedule: