More Airlines Restart Operations to Sri Lanka – A Significant Boost to Tourism

Supporting Sri Lanka’s push to get its tourism industry back on track, an increasing number of international airlines have resumed services to the country; also notable is that some airlines have added to their daily flights, while new connections have been included as well, making it easier for tourists to access this popular holiday destination. Highlights this year include the return of Star Alliance airline partner, Air China in July and AirAsia flights from Bangkok to Colombo in the same month.

In August 2023, Turkish Airlines which is also a Star Alliance member, started direct flights linking Colombo and Istanbul, while this month, Air Arabia Abu Dhabi is set to launch flights to the country as well. Further good news came to light when it was revealed that Arkia Airlines will begin direct flights from Israel to Colombo for the first time on 31st October 2023. This influx of global airlines has also been mirrored in the rise of arrivals with the country welcoming 900,708 international travellers by 30th August this year. Tourists have much to look forward to as the winter season beckons which includes enjoying plenty of sun, sand, and surf in south coast destinations such as Bentota; hotels and resorts located alongside the beach here like Thaala Bentota Resort continue to make an ideal choice offering getaways for families and couples alike.