Reactivating the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), Aitken Spence Travels celebrated the arrival of the first Bulgarian charter flight for the Winter 2023/24 season on December 27. Operated by Bulgaria Air, the flight brought over 200 holidaymakers eager to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka.
The visitors will embark on round tours, immersing themselves in the rich culture and breathtaking landscapes that Sri Lanka has to offer. The itinerary includes visits to Kandy city, the cultural triangle, Pinnawela, the hill country, and concludes with guests enjoying the golden beaches of the southern coast.
Guest accommodation ranges from luxurious 4 and 5 star properties to boutique establishments on the Southern belt giving the much needed revenue to these hotels.
Aitken Spence Travels established a strategic partnership with one of Bulgaria’s leading tour operators to ensure the successful execution of this charter operation.
An official of the Bulgarian tour operator said, “We witnessed the seamless handling of the first charter in March 2023, and we were eager to enhance our promotion of Sri Lanka.”
Jt. Deputy Chairperson and Jt. Deputy Managing Director of Aitken Spence and Head of Tourism and Leisure for the Group, Stasshani Jayawardena said, “This arrival shows our partner’s confidence in our quality of service and the destination to commit towards this charter operation commencing in December.”
Aitken Spence Travels, Managing Director, Nalin Jayasundera said, “Bulgaria is not a traditional source market for Sri Lanka and has generated around 1,400 tourists in total (November SLTDA report). It is good to have visitors from an emerging market enjoying the diversity of Sri Lanka.
“Air connectivity plays a significant role in catering to a substantial portion of visitor arrivals and charter flights help build visitor confidence in the country,” he said.
