Airline operations in Sri Lanka have increased by 25% compared to 2023 as the country attracted 36 airlines in 2023 and by July 2024 this has increased to 46.
This increase was also evident in the passenger as well as cargo operations which also saw a significant increase. Chairman of Airports and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Company Atula Galketiya, said that by July 2024, airports attracted 4.3 million international passenger movements.
“We believe that this number will be around 9 million by the end of the next six months.”
Also, the amount of international air traffic has increased by 24.50% by June 2024 as compared to June 2023.
“When that number is compared with the month of July 2023, there is a growth of 26.10%. In addition air cargo movement has also increased by 28.96% during the same period. Our terminal handled about 10.8 million air passengers in 2018. But there are some problems in providing facilities to attract more tourists. Therefore, many short-term and long-term measures are currently being taken to improve the facilities to cater to around 8 to 9 million passengers. Firstly we will call for tenders to improve facilities at the departure area of the first intermediate terminal. The tender will probably be awarded by next month.”
“In addition 30 more counters will be opened in the departure area that will be built in a new building. Four arrival and departure e-gates will be also constructed and due to this Immigration and emigration can be expedited sooner. We are currently discussing with JICA and they will provide the necessary loan facility by next month as promised for the second proposed terminal for the Bandaranaike International Airport. (BIA)” The project is expected to commence mid next month and will be completed by 2028. He also said that the brain drain also severely affected the industry as more than 80 air traffic controllers have left the country.
“We have given the remaining one increase in incentives and are actively training more and have already recruited around 25 new air traffic controllers.”
Daily News
