Sri Lanka Winter Tourism: Nine Direct Flights from Moldova to Mattala Airport Announced

For years, the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) has been a point of debate, often referred to in global media as the “world’s emptiest airport.” However, this winter, the narrative is shifting. A strategic new air corridor has opened, connecting the Eastern European nation of Moldova directly to the southern shores of Sri Lanka.

According to former Sri Lankan Ambassador to Russia, Udayanga Weeratunga, nine direct flights have been scheduled to bring tourists from Moldova to Mattala this winter season. This initiative is more than just a logistical feat; it represents a lifeline for the southern tourism economy and a clever tactical move to tap into regional markets affected by geopolitical shifts.

A Strategic Corridor for Eastern Europe

The announcement comes as Sri Lanka looks to diversify its tourist arrival sources. While the flights originate in Moldova, the target demographic is broader. Weeratunga highlighted that these flights are specifically designed to cater to tourists from Moldova, Ukraine, and nearby Eastern European countries.

With the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, many travelers from the region have sought alternative routes to escape the harsh northern winters. Moldova, sharing a border with Ukraine, has emerged as a vital transit hub. By establishing direct flights from Chisinau to Mattala, Sri Lanka is offering a seamless “sun-and-sea” escape for travelers who would otherwise face long, exhausting multi-stop journeys.

The Economic Impact: A $25 Million Seasonal Boost

The arrival of these nine flights is not just about filling seats; it is about fueling the local economy. Each flight is expected to bring hundreds of high-spending travelers who typically stay for two to three weeks—significantly longer than the average short-haul visitor.

• Projected Revenue: Early estimates suggest this winter corridor could generate upwards of $25 million in direct foreign exchange.
• Local Employment: From safari jeep drivers in Yala to boutique hotel staff in Tangalle and Hambantota, the influx of Moldovan and Eastern European tourists provides critical seasonal income for thousands of local families.
• Infrastructure Utilization: These flights help justify the maintenance and operational costs of the Mattala airport, proving its value as a specialized hub for charter and winter-season operations.

Why Mattala? The Southern Advantage

For a tourist arriving from Eastern Europe, landing in Mattala offers a strategic advantage. While the main airport in Colombo (BIA) is often congested, Mattala provides a swift entry point to Sri Lanka’s most pristine vacation spots.

Within an hour of landing at MRIA, visitors can be:

On Safari: Exploring the leopard-dense jungles of Yala National Park or the elephant herds of Udawalawe.

On the Beach: Lounging on the golden sands of Hambantota, Tangalle, or Mirissa.

Soaking in History: Visiting the sacred sites of Kataragama or the colonial charm of Galle Fort.

By bypassing the three-hour drive from Colombo, travelers gain more time to relax, making the “Mattala route” a preferred choice for specialized tour operators like SkyUp and FlyOne.

The Human Story: Resilience and Hospitality

What makes this story truly human is the resilience of the travelers and the hosts. Many of the visitors arriving on these flights are seeking a reprieve from the stresses of their home regions. For them, Sri Lanka is not just a holiday destination; it is a sanctuary of warmth, peace, and legendary hospitality.

On the other side, the local communities in Hambantota and surrounding areas have spent months preparing. Small guest houses have been refurbished, and local guides have been brushing up on their Russian and English to better serve this specific market. When the first flight of the season touches down and the traditional water-cannon salute greets the aircraft, it marks a moment of shared hope—a bridge between two cultures that, despite the distance, find common ground in the sun.

Looking Toward 2026

The success of these initial nine flights will serve as a blueprint for the future. If occupancy rates remain high and the economic impact is felt by the locals, there is already talk of extending the service and adding more direct routes from the Baltic states and Poland.

As the world watches Sri Lanka’s recovery, the Moldova-Mattala connection stands as a testament to the power of creative diplomacy and the enduring appeal of the “Wonder of Asia.”

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