Thai Lion Air

SriLankan Airlines is not merely an air carrier, but the national pride of Sri Lanka and a traveller's first introduction to legendary island hospitality. The company has established itself as a reliable guide to Asia and beyond, combining international safety standards with unique local flair. On board, passengers are invariably greeted by the warm smiles of the crew and an atmosphere that sets the mood for a pleasant holiday even before landing.

The airline's history dates back to 1979, when it was founded under the name Air Lanka. Since then, the carrier has undergone a long journey of modernization and rebranding, becoming a member of the prestigious global aviation alliance oneworld. Today, SriLankan Airlines plays a key role in tourism development, connecting the island with important economic and cultural centres of the region, offering convenient connections and a high level of service in both Economy and Business Class.

One of the company's main advantages is its modern fleet. The fleet consists primarily of reliable Airbus family liners (models A330 and A320/A321), which ensure comfortable flights for medium and long distances. Aircraft cabins are equipped with modern multimedia systems so that travel time flies by unnoticed while watching movies or listening to music.

Particular attention is paid to the gastronomic aspect of the flight. Passengers are offered dishes inspired by the vibrant cuisine of the region, including Halal-friendly options, as well as a classic European menu. And, of course, a flight with this carrier is impossible to imagine without a cup of famous Ceylon tea, served with special care. The flight geography covers many destinations, including important cities such as Mumbai, Hong Kong, and Jakarta, making the airline a convenient choice for travel across Asia.

You can contact SriLankan Airlines in several convenient ways. The carrier strives to provide quality support to passengers worldwide, offering 24/7 assistance with booking issues, schedule changes, or baggage transport.

For booking management, online check-in, and flight status checks, it is most convenient to use the company's digital services. If personal communication is required, you can always use the global contact centre phone number.

Main communication channels:

• Official Website: www.srilankan.com
• Global Contact Centre (24/7): +94 117 77 1979
• Email for general inquiries: reservations@srilankan.com
• Mobile App: SriLankan Airlines (available in major app stores)

Social Media:

You can follow news and special offers on the airline's official pages on popular social networks (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter, YouTube). Often, you can get a quick answer to simple questions via direct messages there.

Airport Assistance:

Airline representatives are available for consultation directly in the departure zones of international airports. Check-in counters usually open 3 hours before flight departure. This is the most reliable way to get help on the spot if you are already en route, for example, flying through the hub in Bangkok or another major transit node.

Important Note: Contact details are subject to change. In emergency situations or if urgent ticket changes are required, it is recommended to call the global 24/7 contact centre directly.

Proper baggage preparation is the key to a stress-free start to your journey. SriLankan Airlines, as a national carrier, strives to provide its passengers with comfortable conditions, but compliance with established standards will help avoid unnecessary hassles and extra charges at the airport. Before departure, whether it is a short flight or a long journey, it is always recommended to check the current requirements on your ticket.

Cabin Baggage

Passengers are allowed to take items necessary during the flight into the cabin. The standard allowance for Economy Class is usually 1 piece weighing up to 7 kg. The dimensions of the bag should not exceed 56x36x23 cm so that it fits easily on the shelf above the seat. Business Class passengers can often count on an increased allowance — up to 2 pieces of cabin baggage. Additionally, it is generally permitted to carry a small personal item: a laptop in a bag, a handbag, or a camera.

Checked Baggage

The airline uses a weight concept for baggage on most routes. This means you are not limited by the number of bags, the main thing is to stay within the total weight limit.

• Economy Class: Usually includes up to 30 kg of baggage. This is a generous allowance, allowing you to take everything you need for a vacation, for example, if you are flying for a beach holiday in Phuket.
• Business Class: The limit is often increased to 40 kg.
• Infants: For children under 2 years old without a separate seat, an allowance of 10 kg is usually provided.

Excess Baggage

If your suitcases weigh more than allowed, you will have to pay for the excess. Rates depend on the flight zone and are calculated for each extra kilogram. Experienced travellers know that paying for additional baggage in advance via the airline's website or call centre is significantly cheaper than paying directly at the check-in counter at the airport.

Special Baggage and Sports Equipment

For outdoor enthusiasts planning, for example, a trip to the mountains near the city of Chiang Mai, it is important to know the rules for transporting equipment. Bicycles, surfboards, golf sets, or diving gear may be included in the free baggage allowance if they fit within the total weight and dimensions. However, the airline must be notified in advance about the transport of bulky equipment or musical instruments (e.g., a cello), as space in the cargo hold is limited.

Prohibited Items and Restrictions

For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to carry explosives, flammable liquids, and gases in any baggage. Pay special attention to power banks (portable chargers) and spare lithium batteries: they can be carried only in cabin baggage. If you leave them in a suitcase, it may be opened and the device confiscated. Also, given the specifics of the Asian region, many airlines, including SriLankan Airlines, prohibit the transport of durian fruit due to its pungent smell.

Packing Tips

To ensure your flight goes smoothly, follow these simple recommendations:

• Always take all valuables, documents, money, and essential medicines with you in your cabin baggage.
• Remove old baggage tags from suitcases so that the automatic sorting system does not send your luggage on last year's route, for example, to Hat Yai instead of your current destination.
• Use a bright ribbon or suitcase cover to quickly recognize your bag on the claim belt.
• Pack liquids in your main luggage tightly, and in cabin baggage — in containers of no more than 100 ml, placed in a transparent bag.

Rules for Transporting Animals

Travelling with a pet is a responsible step requiring careful preparation. SriLankan Airlines understands the importance of having your four-legged friend nearby, but places safety above all else. The carrier allows the transport of domestic animals (cats, dogs, birds, and others), but subject to strict regulations. It is crucial to notify the airline about the planned transport of an animal as early as possible, preferably at the time of booking the ticket, as quotas for live cargo on board are limited.

In the Aircraft Cabin

It is important to know that unlike some other airlines, SriLankan Airlines generally does not permit the transport of pets in the aircraft cabin (PETC). This rule is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers.

• Exception for Service Dogs: The only exception is guide dogs and service animals accompanying passengers with disabilities. They are transported in the cabin free of charge and without a container, provided they have a muzzle, leash, and appropriate training and health certificates.

In the Baggage Hold (AVIH)

For most pets, the primary method of travel is transport as checked baggage. Animals are placed in a special heated and pressurized compartment of the aircraft. This is a safe way to send a pet, for example, on vacation to Phuket or other destinations in the route network.

• Container Requirements: The cage must comply with IATA standards: have a rigid frame, a secure lock, and ventilation openings. The bottom must be waterproof and covered with absorbent material.
• Comfort: The container size is selected individually: the animal must be able to stand at full height without its head touching the ceiling, turn around freely, and lie down in a natural position.
• Weight: Animals are accepted as baggage if the weight together with the cage does not exceed established limits (usually up to 32 kg). Heavier pets must be processed through the cargo terminal.

Cargo Transport (SriLankan Cargo)

If your pet is very large, or travelling without the owner, it is processed as cargo via an air waybill.

• Specific Destinations: Into some countries (e.g., the UK, Hong Kong, the UAE), importing animals is permitted only as manifest cargo.
• Procedure: Handing over the animal takes place through the airport cargo terminal, where you must arrive well in advance of the flight departure.

Documents and Veterinary Requirements

The document package depends on the countries of departure, transit, and destination. For example, rules for importing animals into Taipei may differ significantly from the requirements of other Asian countries.

• Veterinary Passport: International standard with vaccination history.
• Vaccination: A valid rabies vaccination is mandatory (administered no less than 30 days and no more than a year before the trip).
• Health Certificate: A certificate from a veterinarian confirming the animal is healthy (usually valid for 7–10 days).
• Permits: Import or transit licences from the veterinary services of the destination country.

Transport Costs

Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance (with the exception of service dogs).

• Payment is charged as excess baggage, based on the total weight of the animal and container.
• Rates depend on departure and arrival zones. It is recommended to clarify the exact amount in advance with the contact centre, especially if your route involves a transfer at a major hub such as Bangkok.

Important Restrictions

SriLankan Airlines cares about animal welfare and may refuse transport in the following cases:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Animals with a shortened snout (pugs, bulldogs, Pekingese, some cat breeds) are at risk due to potential breathing problems at altitude. The airline imposes strict restrictions on their transport in the baggage hold.
• Age and Condition: Puppies and kittens under 12 weeks of age, as well as pregnant females, are usually not accepted for flight.

The FlySmiLes loyalty programme from SriLankan Airlines is created to reward frequent flyers for their loyalty and choice. This is your personal pass to a world of exclusive privileges, making every journey more comfortable, rewarding, and memorable.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The programme has a multi-tier structure where each new status opens up additional opportunities for the traveller. The more frequently you fly, the higher your tier:

• FlySmiLes Blue: The base level assigned immediately upon registration. Allows you to accumulate miles for flights and gives priority on the reservation waiting list.
• FlySmiLes Classic: Silver status. Cardholders receive the right to carry extra baggage and can use Business Class check-in counters.
• FlySmiLes Gold: Gold status. Grants access to comfortable airport business lounges, ensures priority boarding, and priority baggage delivery.
• FlySmiLes Platinum: Elite level for the most active travellers. Includes maximum privileges such as access to First Class lounges, guaranteed seats in Economy Class even on fully booked flights, and concierge services.

How to Earn Miles

You can top up your bonus account balance in various ways, turning everyday expenses into future travels:

• Air Travel: Earn miles for every SriLankan Airlines flight, for example, heading to Bangkok or planning a trip to Jakarta. The accrual amount depends on flight distance and booking class.
• Alliance and Partners: Miles are accrued for flights with any oneworld alliance airline.
• Ground Services: Book hotels, rent cars, and use partner services worldwide.
• Bank Cards: Use co-branded credit cards to pay for daily purchases to accelerate bonus accumulation.

How to Spend Accumulated Miles

FlySmiLes offers flexible options for using earned points:

• Reward Tickets: Issue free flights to popular cities such as Hong Kong or colourful Mumbai.
• Class Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class to enjoy the highest level of service.
• Extra Baggage: Pay for excess suitcase weight with miles if you are carrying many souvenirs.
• Shopping and Services: Exchange miles for goods in the on-board Duty Free shop or for partner vouchers.

Global Alliance Membership

Thanks to SriLankan Airlines' membership in the oneworld alliance, your loyalty card becomes a key to privileges worldwide. FlySmiLes status points are recognized by aviation giants such as American Airlines, British Airways, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, and others. This means your privileges (lounge access, priority check-in) apply on flights of all alliance members.

How to Join the Programme

Joining the privilege club is very simple. Just fill out a short registration form on the airline's official website. Participation is free, and you will start receiving bonuses from your very first flight by quoting your membership number when booking a ticket.

A journey with SriLankan Airlines is a combination of modern comfort and traditional Asian hospitality. The airline strives to make every flight, whether a short regional hop or a long international journey, as pleasant as possible. On board, passengers can expect attentive service, thoughtful interior details, and an atmosphere of tranquility.

Economy Class

Economy Class cabins are designed to ensure convenience even on budget trips. Seats with adjustable headrests and ample legroom allow you to relax en route. This is an excellent choice for tourists heading for a beach holiday in Krabi or planning to explore the cultural sights of Chiang Rai. Each seat is equipped with a personal touchscreen multimedia system offering a wide selection of movies, music, and games for passengers of all ages.

Business Class

For those who value exceptional comfort and privacy, the airline offers premium service in Business Class. Here, seats convert into a fully flat bed (on long-haul flights), allowing for proper rest before arriving in Singapore or for an important meeting. Passengers are provided with amenity kits featuring luxury cosmetic brands, noise-cancelling headphones, and priority service at all stages of the journey. The cabin configuration ensures privacy, creating ideal conditions for both work and sleep during the flight, for example, to Kathmandu.

Food and Beverages

The gastronomic programme on board deserves special attention. The menu includes international cuisine and traditional spicy treats from Sri Lanka. Even on relatively short routes, such as the flight to Macau, passengers are offered hot meals or snacks depending on the time of day. A hallmark of the airline is the serving of famous Ceylon tea, the flavour of which unfolds uniquely at altitude. In Business Class, an extensive selection of premium beverages and an à la carte dining option are available.

Entertainment and Connectivity

The modern in-flight entertainment system will keep you engaged. The collection includes new global cinema releases, Bollywood classics, and travel documentaries. On many aircraft, Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity services are available (for an additional fee), allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or colleagues while flying over the city of Nakhon Si Thammarat or other picturesque locations in the route network.

Special Services

SriLankan Airlines treats young travellers and passengers with special needs with particular care.

• For Children: Special children's kits with colouring books and games are provided on board, as well as a separate children's menu (ordered in advance). Bassinets are available for infants at specific seats.
• Passenger Assistance: The airline provides a full range of escort services for people with disabilities. Staff will assist with boarding and disembarking, for example, at Surat Thani airport, ensuring comfort and safety throughout the journey.

The SriLankan Airlines route network is distinguished by its diversity and well-thought-out logistics, connecting major metropolises with picturesque tourist spots. Using Bangkok as a key transport hub, the airline offers passengers a high frequency of flights to the most sought-after destinations in the region, ensuring convenient connections and comfortable flights.

Preparation for a flight with SriLankan Airlines begins long before arriving at the airport. To ensure your journey goes as smoothly and cost-effectively as possible, we have collected several proven tips that will help save both your budget and your nerves.

Best Time to Book

Planning is the key to saving. Experience shows that the lowest fares for this airline's flights are available 2–3 months before departure. If you intend to visit popular tourist destinations during the high season, such as sunny Phuket or the cultural capital of the north, Chiang Mai, it is worth looking into buying tickets even earlier. Try to avoid booking on Fridays and Sundays when demand is traditionally higher; often flights in the middle of the week (Tuesday or Wednesday) are cheaper.

How to Catch the Best Deals

SriLankan Airlines regularly holds sales, especially timed to holidays or the start of the tourist season. To not miss ticket discounts, for example, to exotic Kathmandu or business-focused Hong Kong, it is recommended to subscribe to the newsletter on the official website and turn on notifications on the carrier's social media. FlySmiLes loyalty programme members often get access to special offers first.

Online Check-in and Seat Selection

Do not waste time in queues at the airport. Online check-in usually opens 48 hours before and closes 2 hours prior to departure. This is the ideal time to select a standard seat in the cabin for free. If you are flying over picturesque islands, for example, heading to Krabi, be sure to book a Window Seat to enjoy views of the Andaman Sea. For long flights or if you value mobility, it is better to choose an Aisle Seat.

Mobile App

Download the airline's official app before your trip. This is your digital assistant that allows you to store boarding passes, track flight status in real-time, and manage your booking. This is especially convenient for connecting flights when you need to quickly find out the gate number in a large hub.

Travel Insurance

Despite the airline's reliability, unforeseen situations can happen on the road. It is strongly recommended to take out travel insurance covering not only medical expenses but also risks associated with flight delays or lost luggage. This is particularly relevant for complex routes with transfers, for example, if you are flying via Bangkok to other countries in the region.

The history of SriLankan Airlines is a chronicle of rapid ascent and a constant striving for perfection, which began more than four decades ago. The airline has gone from a local carrier to a respected international brand, becoming a symbol of hospitality and reliability in the skies over Asia.

Foundation and First Steps

The company was formed in 1979 under the name Air Lanka following the restructuring of the former national carrier, Air Ceylon. At the start, the Sri Lankan government secured the support of Singapore Airlines, which allowed high service standards to be set from the very beginning. The first flights were operated on a pair of Boeing 707 aircraft leased to connect the island with the world. Already in the early years, the route network began to grow actively, covering key destinations in Europe and Asia.

Era of Change and Rebranding

A turning point in the carrier's fate was 1998, when a strategic partnership was concluded with the aviation giant Emirates. It was then that a large-scale rebranding took place: the familiar name Air Lanka was changed to the modern SriLankan Airlines, and the logo (a stylized peacock) and aircraft livery were updated. This cooperation, which lasted ten years, brought significant investment in fleet modernization and staff training, taking the level of on-board comfort to a fundamentally new height.

Joining a Global Alliance

A major milestone in the company's modern history was joining the prestigious aviation alliance oneworld on May 1, 2014. SriLankan Airlines became the first carrier in the Indian Subcontinent to be accorded this honour. This event opened up access to a global route network and partner privileges for passengers, strengthening the airline's status as a leading player in the region.

Fleet Evolution

Over time, the company's technical fleet has undergone radical changes. From operating classic Lockheed L-1011 Tristar and Boeing 747 models, the airline transitioned to a modern and economical fleet consisting exclusively of Airbus liners. The introduction of long-haul A330s and medium-haul aircraft of the A320neo family allowed not only for improved fuel efficiency but also offered passengers the latest entertainment systems and quieter cabins.

Route Network Development

The development strategy of recent years is aimed at strengthening positions in the Asia-Pacific region. The airline actively uses key transit hubs, such as Bangkok, to ensure convenient connections and expand flight geography. Constant improvement of the schedule and the opening of new flights allow tourists to comfortably reach the most exotic corners of Asia while maintaining connections with major business centres of the world.