Jetstar has announced it will begin direct flights from Melbourne to Colombo starting August 25 next year, marking the airline’s first service to Sri Lanka and the first Australian carrier to operate the route.

The low-cost airline plans to operate three flights per week, offering more than 100,000 seats annually.

Jetstar CEO Stephanie Tully said the new route will provide Australians with a direct and affordable gateway to Sri Lanka, calling Colombo an “incredible destination”.

The service is part of Jetstar’s broader international expansion.

Flights will be operated using Jetstar’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which are scheduled for major cabin upgrades next year, including additional business class seats, Wi-Fi, and a new lie-flat crew rest area enabling flights up to 16 hours.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus welcomed the announcement, calling Sri Lanka one of the region’s fastest-growing destinations and celebrating the strengthening partnership as Terminal 4 marks its 10-year milestone.