Vietnam Airlines has launched a new direct air route connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Sri Lanka's capital, with three weekly flights to Bandaranaike International Airport.

Vietnam Airlines has begun operating direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City and Colombo, marking a new air connection between the two countries. The service will run three times weekly to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), according to NewsWire.

The inaugural flight arrival was marked with ceremonial customs at BIA, including a water cannon salute organized by Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited. The welcoming events featured traditional Kandyan dance performances for arriving passengers and included a cake-cutting ceremony to commemorate the route launch.

As part of the inaugural celebration, passengers disembarking from the first flight received complimentary Ceylon Tea packs sponsored by the Sri Lanka Tea Board. These gestures reflected efforts to promote Sri Lankan culture and products to visitors arriving via the new route.

Airline and airport officials anticipate the new direct connection will enhance bilateral travel and tourism between Sri Lanka and Vietnam. The added convenience of non-stop flights is expected to facilitate easier passenger movement and strengthen commercial ties between the two nations.