British MP starts petition for direct flights between London and Jaffna

Labour parliamentarian Gareth Thomas initiated a petition demanding direct air travel links between London and Jaffna International Airport to enhance connectivity for British Tamils connected to Northern Sri Lanka.

Titled "Bring Direct Flights to Jaffna," the petition draws attention to travel obstacles faced by families heading to the north for weddings, funerals, religious events, and family reunions.

The representative for Harrow West noted the absence of direct connections between London and Jaffna, requiring travelers to land in Colombo and proceed with a four-hundred-kilometre overland trip.

Road or rail transit from Colombo to Jaffna demands six to seven hours, presenting severe challenges for seniors, young children, and people attending urgent family gatherings.

The suggested direct flight route seeks to shorten travel duration, boost accessibility, and reinforce cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Northern Sri Lanka.

The document also emphasizes potential advantages for tourism, financial investment, and economic progress within the Northern Province.

The politician urges the United Kingdom administration, Sri Lankan officials, commercial airlines, and London terminal operators to collaborate on establishing a commercially feasible direct air route to Jaffna International Airport.

The public is encouraged to endorse the petition to support the creation of the proposed aviation link.