Sri Lanka’s tourism boom continues, with arrivals surpassing 1.7 million in 2025 and September alone recording nearly 150,000 visitors. However, Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) has reached its operational limits, leading to the rejection of additional weekly flight requests for the upcoming winter season due to space scarcity.
Industry sources estimate a significant revenue loss over the six-month season, as strong demand outpaces BIA’s capacity. Several charter carriers have responded by diverting operations to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA).
