Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) is to begin domestic commercial flights using aircraft freed from regular transport missions. Charter flights are on offer to tourist destinations and other towns in the island using helicopters and light fixed-wing transport aircraft, said SLAF officials.

Three domestic aviation companies currently operate regular flights to the northern Jaffna peninsula, although tickets are said to be more expensive.

"The rates will be cheaper than those charged by private domestic air flight providers", said Wing Commander Nanayakkara. Helicopters and small airplanes will operate from the Bandaranaike International Airport and the Ratmalana Air Force base, he added. No decision had yet been taken on scheduled flights.