The A330 cabin was a 2x2x2 layout, with 18 full flat bed seats, but no aisle access for window seat passengers. However, as the seat pitch was so great it was quite easy to step into the aisle past your neighbour passenger, except when in full flat position. The burnt-sienna colour leather seats was both wide and comfortable.

A large pillow, blanket, slippers, water bottle, headphones and  amenity kit were placed in the front seat pocket compartments. The IFE monitor was large enough, though not as big as some other airlines I’ve been on. The selection of programmes and movies were not extensive, and I preferred to have had more choice since this was 11 hour flight. The seat functions worked well, although when stretched into fully flat position, offered little privacy.

     Once at cruising altitude and the seat belt signs were turned off, the menus were handed out, and the bar service began, with plenty of wines and spirits to choose from, but no cocktails. I say this because prior to the ‘flat bed in business class era’, I remember when flying Sri Lankan, I could order and be served with a Manhattan or Gin-Martini cocktail. After a second round of drinks, the lunch service began, with a main course offering both western and Asian dishes.

     Served on bone china tableware, the spicy curried prawns with basmati rice, okra vegetables, salad and papadams, accompanied by chilled white wine, was delicious. The sweet trolley followed with tea, coffee and more alcohol. About an hour later, it was afternoon tea time, with tea (about 6 varieties), coffee and cakes, served from the trolley.

     Later, being a full daylight flight, the window shades were pulled down and the cabin lights were dimmed giving the option to get some sleep. I was looking forward to watching a movie, which I watched about half, but after the big lunch, several servings of wine and coffee, it put me to sleep for a good three hours.

     About two hours before landing, the cabin lights were brightened, shades pushed up, and hot towels were passed around followed by round of soft drinks, water and juices. Dinner was soon to follow. This time I settled for the western menu, which was smoked salmon and potato salad for starter, and mixed grill for my main course. The lamb chop was particulary tender and succulent. Instead of wine I opted for a Chivas on ice.

     Too full to have any desert, I sipped my coffee and watched the scene below, as we cruised over northern Europe, over the channel and began our descent into London Heathrow.

     Flying Sri Lankan was indeed a pleasure. The cabin crew were very friendly, engaging, and regularly checking whether I needed anything.
I noticed they had brief chats with nearly everyone in the cabin, and their smiles indicated that they enjoyed their conversations. The onboard dining service was excellent and the sumptuous meals certainly made my journey memorable. For a small airline, in the onboard service and cuisine category, it certainly is on par with some of the big 4-5 star carriers.

     My only disappointment was the lack of privacy - no pull up screen, and no aisle access for every seat. I did however note that some of their A330’s have been recently redesigned with larger cabin, a new 1x2x1 layout and all seating having aisle access.
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Kandyan* come from the word Kandy, which is the hillside town in Sri Lanka. Check our feature on Kandy, Sri Lanka’s loveliest town