Mihin Lanka, which operates four flights every week from Trichy to Colombo, has decided to stop operations from June 1. S K Mittal, executive director of Translaka, the Chennai-based general sales agency (GSA) for the airline, said the falling tourist traffic between Colombo and Trichy had forced the decision. "We have taken a decision to ground the four flights to Colombo because of lack of patronage on this sector," said Mittal.
However, sources said the recent attacks on Sri Lankan tourists in Trichy region could have prompted the move. The decision will affect exports to Europe and West Asia from the region, which pass through Colombo. Mihin Lanka also connects Trichy with Sharjah and Bahrain.
The Sri Lankan airline operates 18 services every week from Trichy to Colombo whereas no Indian airline connects the two cities.
11/04/13 Dennis Selvan/Times of India
