23/08/2017
Embarking on a journey across Sri Lanka offers a tapestry of vibrant cultures, lush landscapes, and ancient wonders. While traditional ground transport has its charm, imagine soaring above the verdant tea plantations and sparkling coastlines, reaching your destination swiftly and in unparalleled comfort. This is precisely the promise of Cinnamon Air, a name that has become synonymous with luxury, efficiency, and breathtaking aerial views within the island nation. But what exactly is Cinnamon Air, and what makes it such a distinctive mode of travel?
As a discerning traveller in the UK, you might be wondering about the specifics of this intriguing service. Is it a local gem or part of a larger international conglomerate? How does an 'air taxi' truly enhance your Sri Lankan experience, and what can you expect in terms of service and value? This comprehensive guide delves deep into Cinnamon Air, exploring its identity, operations, fleet, and the unique benefits it brings to those looking to explore Sri Lanka from a magnificent new perspective.
- Unveiling Cinnamon Air: Sri Lanka's Premier Air Taxi Service
- The Ownership and Vision Behind Cinnamon Air
- A Fleet Built for Comfort and Adventure
- Seamless Connectivity: Routes and Codeshare Agreements
- Investing in Experience: Cinnamon Air Rates and Value
- Frequently Asked Questions about Cinnamon Air
- Is Cinnamon Air a Sri Lankan airline?
- What type of aircraft does Cinnamon Air use?
- How many passengers can Cinnamon Air planes carry?
- Does Cinnamon Air operate daily flights?
- Does Cinnamon Air have a codeshare partner?
- Is flying with Cinnamon Air expensive?
- Where does Cinnamon Air operate from?
- Can I book multi-ticket deals with Cinnamon Air?
- Conclusion: Experience Sri Lanka from Above with Cinnamon Air
Unveiling Cinnamon Air: Sri Lanka's Premier Air Taxi Service
Cinnamon Air is far more than just another airline; it is a dedicated luxury air taxi service operating exclusively within Sri Lanka. Established to cater to both discerning tourists and business travellers, it offers a swift, comfortable, and incredibly scenic alternative to lengthy road journeys. Imagine cutting down hours of travel time to mere minutes, all while enjoying panoramic views that are simply inaccessible from the ground.
The service is renowned for its commitment to convenience, offering daily scheduled flights to key destinations across the island. These schedules are meticulously synchronised with the arrival and departure times of international airlines at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), ensuring seamless connectivity for visitors arriving in or departing from Sri Lanka. This thoughtful integration means you can step off your international flight and, with minimal fuss, transition directly to a waiting Cinnamon Air aircraft, ready to whisk you away to your chosen paradise.
What truly sets Cinnamon Air apart is the unparalleled aerial perspective it provides. Gliding above the island, passengers are treated to spectacular vistas of Sri Lanka's diverse terrain – from the misty mountains of the central highlands to the golden beaches of the south and east, and the ancient cities nestled amidst lush greenery. It's not just transport; it's an integral part of the travel experience, offering photographic opportunities and memories that last a lifetime.
The Ownership and Vision Behind Cinnamon Air
For those asking, 'Is Cinnamon Air a Sri Lankan airline?', the answer is a resounding yes. Cinnamon Air is proudly a Sri Lankan domestic airline, operating under the corporate entity Saffron Aviation, DBA Cinnamon Air. Its roots are deeply embedded in the local economy and business landscape, reflecting a strong Sri Lankan heritage and commitment to the nation's tourism infrastructure.
The airline commenced its daily scheduled operations in July 2013, quickly establishing itself as a vital component of the country's luxury travel sector. Saffron Aviation (Pvt) Ltd., the company managing Cinnamon Air, is a powerful joint venture comprising some of Sri Lanka's most prominent business entities. These include John Keells Holdings PLC (JKH), Sri Lanka's largest listed conglomerate; MMBL Leisure Holdings (Pvt) Ltd., a key part of the Mercantile Merchant Bank Group; and Phoenix Ventures Limited, the parent company of the Brandix Group, which is Sri Lanka's largest garment manufacturer. This formidable ownership structure underscores the airline's stability, financial backing, and commitment to excellence.
Cinnamon Air operates from a dedicated terminal within the precincts of the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake. This exclusive facility ensures a streamlined and private experience for its passengers, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the main international terminal. Furthermore, the airline boasts its own purpose-built hangar and maintenance facilities, signifying a robust operational setup and a strong focus on safety and reliability. Its company slogan, "Wings of Sri Lanka," perfectly encapsulates its identity as a truly national and aspirational service.
A Fleet Built for Comfort and Adventure
The fleet at Cinnamon Air is specifically chosen to offer both versatility and a premium flying experience. Passengers travel in modern, well-maintained aircraft designed for comfort and optimal viewing. The fleet primarily consists of:
- Two Cessna 208 Amphibian aircraft: These remarkable planes are capable of both land and water landings, making them ideal for reaching destinations that feature lakes, lagoons, or coastal areas with designated waterdromes. They offer a unique 'fly-and-float' experience, adding an extra layer of adventure to your travel.
- One wheeled Cessna 208B Grand Caravan: This aircraft is designed for conventional runway operations, serving inland destinations with airstrips.
Each of these aircraft is configured to carry up to eight passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalised flying experience. The design of the Cessna 208 models, with their large windows, is perfectly suited for sightseeing, allowing every passenger to enjoy the spectacular vistas below. For enhanced performance, some of Cinnamon Air's fleet features the Supervan 900, equipped with the powerful Honeywell TPE331-12JR engine, ensuring efficient and reliable operation across diverse conditions.
Cinnamon Air's operational model is built around providing seamless connectivity across Sri Lanka. By offering daily scheduled flights, the airline acts as a crucial link, reducing travel times significantly between major tourist hubs and remote attractions. While specific routes can vary and are best checked directly with the airline, they typically cover popular destinations such as:
- Kandy (Polgolla Reservoir)
- Sigiriya
- Trincomalee
- Batticaloa
- Hambantota
- Dambulla
- Bentota
- Dickwella
- and many more, often utilising both land and waterdromes.
A testament to its integration within Sri Lanka's aviation landscape, Cinnamon Air operates all its scheduled flights in a codeshare agreement with SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier. This partnership is mutually beneficial, expanding reach for both airlines and offering passengers greater flexibility and booking options. To further symbolise this strong relationship, one of Cinnamon Air's Cessna 208 Caravan Amphibians even sports a distinctive SriLankan AirTaxi livery, highlighting the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to enhancing travel within Sri Lanka.
Investing in Experience: Cinnamon Air Rates and Value
When considering an air taxi service, the question of cost naturally arises. Cinnamon Air positions itself as a luxury travel option, and its rates reflect the premium service, unparalleled convenience, and time-saving benefits it offers. Flight fares generally range from approximately $170 to $256 USD per person, depending on the route and booking specifics.
While this might appear higher than ground transport options, it's crucial to view this as an investment in your travel experience and precious holiday time. For those who are "time poor" or simply wish to maximise their enjoyment of Sri Lanka without enduring long, arduous road journeys, a luxury one-hour flight undoubtedly beats a half-day or full-day taxi ride. The value proposition extends beyond mere transport; it encompasses comfort, exclusivity, safety, and the added bonus of incredible scenic beauty from above.
Furthermore, Cinnamon Air occasionally offers multi-ticket deals or special packages, which can provide better value for travellers planning multiple aerial transfers during their trip. It's always advisable to visit the Cinnamon Air website or contact their sales team directly for the most up-to-date pricing, promotions, and personalised quotes for your itinerary.
Cinnamon Air vs. Traditional Ground Taxi: A Comparative Look
To truly appreciate the value proposition of Cinnamon Air, let's compare it with the traditional ground taxi experience for internal travel in Sri Lanka:
| Feature | Cinnamon Air (Air Taxi) | Traditional Ground Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Time | Significantly reduced (e.g., 30-60 mins for long distances) | Can be very long (e.g., 4-8+ hours for similar distances) |
| Comfort | Luxury, spacious seating, air-conditioned, minimal turbulence | Varies, can be cramped, bumpy roads, potential for discomfort |
| Views | Panoramic, breathtaking aerial views of landscapes | Ground-level views, often through traffic or less scenic routes |
| Convenience | Direct flights to specific destinations, synchronized with international arrivals | Door-to-door, but subject to traffic, road conditions, and delays |
| Cost (Per Person) | Higher initial cost ($170-$256 USD+) | Lower initial cost (varies greatly by distance and negotiation) |
| Exclusivity | Private, intimate experience (max 8 passengers) | Can be private, but less exclusive feel |
| Time Saving | Exceptional, maximises holiday time | Can consume significant portions of travel days |
| Environmental Impact | Smaller carbon footprint per passenger compared to multiple long car journeys | Varies, but long distances can be fuel-intensive |
As the table illustrates, while the upfront cost of Cinnamon Air is higher, the advantages in terms of time saved, comfort, and the unique travel experience often outweigh the cost for many travellers seeking efficiency and luxury.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cinnamon Air
Is Cinnamon Air a Sri Lankan airline?
Yes, absolutely. Cinnamon Air is a wholly Sri Lankan domestic airline, owned and operated by Saffron Aviation (Pvt) Limited, a joint venture of prominent Sri Lankan conglomerates. It proudly carries the slogan "Wings of Sri Lanka."
What type of aircraft does Cinnamon Air use?
Cinnamon Air operates a modern fleet consisting of two Cessna 208 Amphibian aircraft and one wheeled Cessna 208B Grand Caravan. The Amphibians are unique for their ability to land on both land and water.
How many passengers can Cinnamon Air planes carry?
Each Cinnamon Air aircraft is configured to comfortably carry up to eight passengers, offering an intimate and personalised flying experience.
Does Cinnamon Air operate daily flights?
Yes, Cinnamon Air provides daily scheduled flights to key destinations across Sri Lanka. These flights are often synchronised with international airline schedules for seamless transfers.
Indeed. Cinnamon Air has a codeshare agreement with SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka, enhancing connectivity and booking flexibility for passengers.
Is flying with Cinnamon Air expensive?
Cinnamon Air is positioned as a luxury air taxi service, with fares ranging from approximately $170 to $256 USD per person. While it represents a premium over ground transport, it offers significant time savings, unparalleled comfort, and breathtaking scenic views, making it a valuable investment for many travellers.
Where does Cinnamon Air operate from?
Cinnamon Air operates from a dedicated domestic terminal located within the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, Colombo, providing a private and efficient check-in and departure experience.
Can I book multi-ticket deals with Cinnamon Air?
It is always recommended to check directly with Cinnamon Air for any current multi-ticket deals or special packages that might be available, particularly if you plan multiple aerial transfers during your visit to Sri Lanka.
Conclusion: Experience Sri Lanka from Above with Cinnamon Air
Cinnamon Air truly redefines internal travel in Sri Lanka. It’s not merely a means of getting from point A to point B; it's an integral part of an unforgettable holiday experience. By choosing Cinnamon Air, you opt for speed, comfort, and the unparalleled beauty of Sri Lanka viewed from the sky. This proudly Sri Lankan airline, with its modern fleet, strategic partnerships, and commitment to luxury, stands as an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximise their time and enrich their travel adventures on this magnificent island. Whether you're flying for leisure or business, Cinnamon Air offers a unique vantage point and an efficient, elegant solution to explore the wonders of Sri Lanka.
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