First Amphibian aircraft in Sri Lanka

Simplifly (formerly Deccan Aviation Lanka) has taken delivery of its new amphibian aircraft in December 2012 and is currently in the final stages of training operations in advance of commercial flights.

Owned by Fairway Holdings, a local company engaged in property development and other businesses, the advanced Cessna T206H will be managed and operated by the airline on behalf of the owners of the aircraft, added a spokesman for Simplifly.

"We congratulate Fairway Holdings on the induction of their first aircraft and thank them for selecting Simplifly as their operating partners.

Fairway has a bold new vision aimed at linking tourism and aviation in Sri Lanka, and thus, we will be working closely with them to develop a completely new business model for this aircraft - for applications ranging from whale watching to excursion flights," said Suren Mirchandani, Vice Chairman, Simplifly. Speaking further, Mirchandani said, "With the growth in Sri Lanka's economy, many companies with interests around the country will likely be looking at having their own aircraft or helicopters for their business activities.

Fairway Holdings is the first of many to do so.

"We see the potential to manage many more aircraft on behalf of companies that understand the benefits of owning an aircraft, but do not wish to have their own license and infrastructure."