The inaugural flight of Azur Airlines from Russia, carrying a group of tourists from that country, arrived at the Katunayake Airport this morning (06) to mark the arrival of winter around the world.

The Katunayake airport authorities had taken steps to hold a water salute to welcome this aircraft.

Azur Air operated a Boeing 767 aircraft for this maiden flight, carrying 332 passengers and 10 crew members.

Azur Air Sri Lanka Manager Maurice de Silva said that starting today, Azur Air will fly to Katunayake Airport from five major cities in Russia every week.

The five cities are listed below.

Venukov

Saint Petersburg (St:Petersburg)

Krasnosk

Sochi

Novosibirsk