How to Book Travel on Expo Aviation

Expo Aviation is a private company that provides air service from Colombo to Jaffna in Sri Lanka. Also known as ExpoAir, Expo Aviation operates a Fokker F-27 aircraft that flies 2 routes each day to Jaffna, on the northern peninsula of Sri Lanka. Operating since 2002, Expo Aviation has plans for eventual travel to international cities such as Dubai and Singapore. Follow these steps to book your flight.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• A passport

Book Tickets on Expo Aviation Flights

1. Call Expo Aviation directly to speak to a booking agent by dialing 011 ([phone], or 011 ([phone].

2. Book seats on Expo Aviation via email. Reservation requests can be emailed to Expo Aviation representatives at [e-mail]. Make sure to specify which seating class you want. Although Expo Aviation operates a 50-seat plane on flights to Jaffna, there are two seating classes available.

3. Ask about discounts. Expo Aviation has a loyalty program for frequent travelers and users of HSBC credit cards. In addition, discounts are available through Sri Lankan travel agencies.

Prepare for Travel in Sri Lanka

4. Have a valid passport. All travelers should be in possession of their passports at all times. They may need to show a return ticket and proof of traveling funds.

5. Obtain a visa when you arrive. A free visitor's visa is available for tourists and visitors upon arrival. If you are staying longer than thirty days; however, you will have to pay for a residency visa.

6. Register with the local police if you're staying in someone's home. The government of Sri Lanka requires that all visitors staying in private homes register with the police department. You'll be subject to questioning if you don't.

Be Aware of Sri Lanka's Current Political Climate

7. Check current information about traveling to Sri Lanka. Although all travelers to Sri Lanka run the risk of experiencing violence, visitors to the north of the country are venturing into areas where the terrorist group Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) is most prevalent.

8. Know that the Sri Lankan government does not exercise control in Jaffna. As recently as April 2006, the U.S. embassy specifically warned travelers of the dangers of Jaffna and advised Americans to evacuate the area. Roads in the area are also known to have land mines.

Tips & Warnings

• All phone numbers include the U.S. international prefix "011." When calling internationally outside the United States, substitute that "011" with "00."
• All country codes are within parentheses and begin with a "+" sign.
• This airline's Web site does not allow visitors to book tickets online.
• There are travel advisories issued by the U.S. State Department about traveling to the north of Sri Lanka where Jaffna is located. Check with the U.S. State Department's Web site (see Resources below) before you make plans.