SriLankan Airlines concluded its latest Global Sales Conference in Hambantota on November 24, 2023, captivating over 200 top international agents and tour operators. The conference showcased the airline’s operational plans and provided insights into the mesmerising landscapes, wildlife, history, cuisine, and culture that make Sri Lanka a premier destination.

Representatives from SriLankan Airlines’ expansive network across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, the Far East, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia attended, including general sales agents, travel agents, tour operators, and franchisees of SriLankan Holidays. The attendees embarked on curated tours to iconic landmarks, followed by a three-day event immersed in Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture and traditions.

The main conference, held at Shangri-La Hambantota, featured industry experts and stimulating discussions shaping SriLankan Airlines’ future in destination marketing. Distinguished speakers included representatives from Trip.com, Jetwing Symphony PLC, Google, and Barmy Army, along with notable figures from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau, and John Keells Group Leisure Sector.

Richard Nuttall, CEO of SriLankan Airlines, expressed the aim of inspiring agents to promote Sri Lanka as a remarkable and safe destination. Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Worldwide Sales & Distribution, presented network expansion plans, including the introduction of ‘SriLankan Direct Connect,’ a booking platform based on IATA’s New Distribution Capability.

Saminda Perera, Head of Marketing, highlighted SriLankan Airlines’ role as a tourism leader and its marketing initiatives, emphasizing the island’s hidden gems. The event featured the premiere of the airline’s new inflight safety video against scenic backdrops of Sri Lanka.

Delegates praised the experience and engaged in collaborative discussions, aligning goals with SriLankan Airlines’ vision. Shangri-La Hambantota served as the official venue partner, supported by the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO) and The Hoteliers Association of Sri Lanka (THASL).

The conference concluded with a successful B2B networking session, facilitating over 500 appointments between foreign delegates and Sri Lankan hoteliers and Destination Management Companies. Given its positive impact, the SriLankan Airlines Global Sales Conference may become an annual event, solidifying the airline’s commitment to positioning Sri Lanka as a world-class destination.