SriLankan Airlines Global Sales Conference: A travel trade sensation!

Wednesday, December 13, 2023

SriLankan Airlines made a significant impression on the global travel industry during its recent Global Sales Conference, which concluded in Hambantota on November 24, 2023. The event saw the participation of approximately 200 of the airline’s top international agents and tour operators. Throughout the program, SriLankan Airlines provided international attendees with insights into its operational plans and offered a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, history, cuisine, and culture, transforming it into a destination masterpiece.

These participants represented SriLankan Airlines’ direct network, spanning regions such as the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, the Far East, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia. The attendees included general sales agents, travel agents, tour operators, and franchisees affiliated with the airline’s tour operating arm, SriLankan Holidays. Guided by members of the airline’s global sales team, the delegates had the opportunity to explore some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks during carefully curated tours.

Following the tours, a three-day event celebrated the vibrant culture and traditions of Sri Lanka. The participants enjoyed a full-scale mini perahera, complete with traditional dance performances that left them yearning for more. The main conference took place at Shangri-La Hambantota and brought together industry experts, fostering inspirational conversations and ideas that would shape the future of SriLankan Airlines’ destination marketing efforts.

Distinguished speakers at the event included Kirk Wong, Regional Airline Director for Oceania, South East Asia, ISC & Middle East at Trip.com; Hiran Cooray, Chairman of Jetwing Symphony PLC; Tara Yoon, Head of Partner Performance, Channel Sales for SEA Travel Trends and Market Recovery at Google; and Chris Millard, Managing Director of Barmy Army. A panel discussion featured prominent figures such as K. D. S. Ruwanchandra, Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation; Chalaka Gajabahu, Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Promotions Bureau; and Dileep Mudadeniya, Senior Vice President of John Keells Group Leisure Sector.

Richard Nuttall, Chief Executive Officer of SriLankan Airlines, expressed his desire to introduce travel agents from around the world to the wonders of Sri Lanka, hoping that they would leave with the inspiration to promote Sri Lanka as a remarkable and safe destination. Dimuthu Tennakoon, Head of Worldwide Sales & Distribution of SriLankan Airlines, highlighted the airline’s network and fleet expansion plans, as well as the upcoming international launch of ‘SriLankan Direct Connect,’ a booking platform based on IATA’s New Distribution Capability (NDC) solutions.

Saminda Perera, Head of Marketing at SriLankan Airlines, emphasized the airline’s role as a tourism leader, showcasing Sri Lanka’s hidden gems and its unique cultural and natural experiences through tailored marketing campaigns. Additionally, the event featured the premiere of SriLankan Airlines’ new inflight safety video, set against the backdrop of Sri Lanka’s stunning scenery.

Delegates were overwhelmingly positive about their experiences in Sri Lanka, with many expressing their eagerness to collaborate with SriLankan Airlines to promote the country further.

The event’s official venue partner was Shangri La Hambantota, with support from 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, resulting in over 500 appointments between foreign delegates and Sri Lankan hoteliers and Destination Management Companies. Due to its positive impact, the SriLankan Airlines Global Sales Conference may become an annual event, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to positioning Sri Lanka as one of the world’s most iconic destinations.

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