Jetstar Asia eyes Colombo as key market for regional growth and tourism

Pix by Upul Abayasekara

•  Jetstar Asia CEO John Simeone expresses optimism over new route’s potential to enhance connectivity, attract travellers from diverse markets and boost Sri Lanka’s tourism growth
• Believes five weekly return flights will make Sri Lanka more accessible than ever before
• Discloses strong forward bookings with major demand coming from Singapore, Australia and Sri Lanka 
• Emphasises importance of collaboration with tourism authorities to promote Sri Lanka as premier destination
• Hayleys Advantis Deputy Managing Director Shano Sabar opines partnership will open new pathways for travellers, exporters contributing meaningfully to overall growth of economy

By Charumini de Silva 

Jetstar Asia yesterday launched its Colombo-Singapore direct route positioning itself as the only low-cost carrier connecting the two cities. Speaking to the media, Jetstar Asia CEO John Simeone expresses optimism about the new route’s potential to boost regional connectivity, attract travellers from diverse markets and contribute to Sri Lanka’s tourism growth. 

“This route has been years in the making since 2019. Although the COVID-pandemic delayed our plans, we are thrilled to finally bring this opportunity to life. We are excited our flights will make Sri Lanka more accessible than ever before,” he said. 

With the addition of Colombo, Jetstar Asia differentiates itself from other carriers by offering a budget-friendly alternative on a route traditionally dominated by full-service airlines. 

“We believe this route will appeal to a wide range of travellers, from those visiting family and friends to holidaymakers looking for new destinations,” he said. 

Since the route was announced, the CEO noted that the airline has seen strong forward bookings, with demand coming from key markets like Singapore, Colombo and Australia. 

“The majority of bookings are between Singapore and Colombo, but we are seeing healthy interest from Australian travellers connecting through our Singapore hub,” Simeone told the Daily FT.

The carrier also highlighted its flexibility, enabling customers to tailor their travel experience through customisable bundles, keeping fares affordable.

“We have sold over two-thirds of our fares under $ 100 in the last financial year and we are committed to continuing this trend,” he added, adding that Jetstar Asia’s pricing offers significant savings compared to other airlines on the route. 

He believes the move will help to boost tourism, while supporting local businesses and providing travellers from Sri Lanka and across Southeast Asia with access to more affordable travel options. 

“The route is expected to drive demand not only from leisure travellers but also from budget-conscious business passengers. We are seeing more travellers opt for affordable alternatives and our network offers great flexibility with options to explore Southeast Asia and beyond,” he said.

He said the timing for this new service is perfect with Christmas holidays ahead. The airline operates five return flights per week operated by their fleet of A320s, offering both morning and evening departures to maximise convenience for travellers. 

Simeone also emphasised the importance of collaboration with the tourism authorities to promote Sri Lanka as a premier destination. “Sri Lanka offers a unique charm for holidaymakers and we see Colombo not only as a great destination in itself but also as a gateway to places like the Maldives,” he said.

He was of the view that easing visa processes could give a significant boost to tourism, making travel to Sri Lanka even more appealing. 

“Customers appreciate seamless travel and simplifying entry regulations can make a big difference,” he added. 

Diversified conglomerate, Hayleys PLC subsidiary — Hayleys Adventis has been appointed the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Jetstar Asia in Sri Lanka.

Hayleys Advantis Deputy Managing Director Shano Sabar expressed gratitude to Jetstar Asia and its leadership team for choosing Sri Lanka as a key destination in their regional expansion.

“This partnership highlights the confidence in Sri Lanka’s market potential and strategic geographic positioning to provide seamless connections to other key destinations including Australia, thanks to Jetstar’s extensive network and partnerships,” he added.

Sabar also noted that Singapore remains a preferred destination for Sri Lankans due to its proximity, ease of travel and range of attractions. “With Jetstar Asia’s affordable fares, we are opening up even more opportunities for Sri Lankan travellers to explore the region,” he said. 

The Deputy Managing Director also highlighted that the new service provides seamless cargo services opening new trade opportunities for Sri Lankan businesses. 

Sabar expressed confidence in the initiative which will open new pathways for travellers and exporters alike contributing meaningfully to the overall growth of the economy.

With many seats available annually on the route, he said the service provides ample opportunities for travellers to explore Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and natural attractions or connect to other global destinations.

The airline operates over 300 flights weekly to 17 destinations across eight countries. Since its inception in 2004, it has carried over 50 million passengers. It also has codeshare partners including Qantas, Emirates, Finnair, Air France, KLM and SriLankan Airlines as well as over 40 interline partners.