Uzbekistanbased Centrum Air has scheduled the resumption of direct flights between Tashkent and Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) in southern Sri Lanka for the 2026/27 winter season. The service, set to begin on October 28, 2026, reconnects Central Asia with Sri Lanka’s southern coast, offering travelers a direct route to the island’s beach destinations and wildlife attractions.
The seasonal service of Centrum Air is planned to operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, through the end of March 2027 using Airbus A320 family aircraft. The route was previously operated by Centrum Air until January 2025, making this a resumption rather than the airline’s first ever service to Mattala.
Twice Weekly Flights Planned Through March 2027
Under the published winter schedule, flights will operate every Wednesday and Saturday, connecting Tashkent with Mattala, near Hambantota. The service is designed to provide a direct travel option for passengers from Uzbekistan seeking a winter holiday in Sri Lanka, without requiring a connecting flight through Colombo.
The route of Centrum Air will use Airbus A320 family aircraft, with scheduled flight times varying by operating day. According to published schedules, the Wednesday service is planned to arrive in Mattala at 5:10 p.m., while the Saturday service is scheduled to arrive at 4:35 p.m. local time. Passengers should confirm timings with the airline before travelling, as seasonal schedules may change.
Direct Access to Sri Lanka’s Southern Coast
The new seasonal connection offers travellers more convenient access to southern Sri Lanka, a region known for its beaches, surfing opportunities and coastal resorts. By flying directly to Mattala rather than arriving through Colombo, visitors can begin their journeys closer to destinations in the island’s southern region.
The surrounding region also offers attractions for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Yala National Park is known for wildlife viewing, including elephants and leopards, while the coast near Mirissa attracts visitors interested in whale watching. The route could help make these experiences more accessible to travellers planning winter holidays in Sri Lanka.
Route Resumption Strengthens Regional Connectivity
Centrum Air’s return to the Tashkent Mattala route forms part of its seasonal international network for the 2026–27 northern winter. The service of Centrum Air creates another direct link between Central Asia and Sri Lanka, providing additional options for travellers during the southern coast’s main holiday season.
The resumption of Centrum Air also adds activity to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, which serves the island’s southern region. Direct international connections can support tourism businesses by improving access for overseas visitors, although the actual impact on visitor numbers will depend on demand, flight operations and the availability of onward transport and accommodation.
Tourism and Commercial Opportunities
The route provides opportunities for tourism operators to develop travel packages combining Sri Lanka’s beaches, wildlife parks and cultural attractions. Hotels, tour companies and transport providers in the southern region may benefit if the service attracts more visitors from Uzbekistan and neighbouring Central Asian markets.
The airline’s official announcement confirms the route, operating days and seasonal period. However, I could not independently verify the claim that Royal Spence Aviation is acting as the airline’s General Sales Agent and airport supervision agent for this service, so that partnership detail should be confirmed before publication.
