Sri Lanka, Aug. 17 -- Vietnam Airlines has officially launched direct air services between Vietnam and Sri Lanka, with its inaugural flight arriving at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake last night (16).

The Airbus A320, operating as flight VN-671 from Ho Chi Minh City, arrived with 164 passengers on board. The aircraft was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute organised by Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Private Limited.

The return flight from Colombo to Vietnam departed with 172 passengers.

Under the new service, Vietnam Airlines will operate three direct flights a week between Ho Chi Minh City and Katunayake on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Each flight will take approximately four hours and 30 minu...