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The pearl of the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka, is blessed with a diverse network of airports serving the vital role of connecting this island nation to the globe and domestic travel. Key links for tourist, business, and local transportation alike are these airports in Sri Lanka—the bustling international hub of Bandaranaike International Airport down to smaller rural airfields. With recent upgrading and expansion efforts aimed at increasing connectivity throughout the island, the country’s airport infrastructure reflects its dedication to economic development and tourism growth.
10 Top Airports In Sri Lanka
Here is a list of 10 airports in Sri Lanka with stunning runaways and upgraded terminals that include a variety of airlines:
1. Bandaranaike International Airport
Photo: ANKAN / Wikimedia Commons
Bandaranaike International Airport, established in 1967, is Sri Lanka’s primary international gateway. Located in Katunayake, 32 kilometres north of Colombo, it serves as the main hub for Sri Lankan Airlines. The airport handles over 10 million passengers annually and has undergone several expansions to meet growing demand. With its modern facilities and wide range of international connections, it’s the first point of entry for most visitors to Sri Lanka. The airport features two terminals and a recently upgraded runway capable of handling the largest commercial aircraft.
Airlines Operating: SriLankan Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, and many others
Connections: Major cities worldwide, including London, Dubai, Singapore, and Tokyo
Facilities: Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, currency exchange, and hotel shuttle services
Timings: 24*7
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2. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Photo: Anuradha Dullewe Wijeyeratne / Wikimedia Commons
Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport opened in 2013 and is Sri Lanka’s second international airport. Located in Hambantota District, it was built to serve the country’s southeast region and boost tourism. Despite modern facilities, including a 4,000-metre runway capable of handling large aircraft, the airport has struggled with low passenger numbers, earning it the nickname “world’s emptiest airport.” Recent efforts aim to increase traffic and develop the surrounding area, including proposals for aircraft maintenance and cargo operations to utilise the airport’s capacity.
Airlines Operating: FitsAir (domestic flights)
Connections: Limited domestic routes, occasional charter flights
Facilities: Duty-free shops, cafes, car rentals
Timings: Limited operations, primarily daytime
3. Ratmalana Airport
Photo: Peter R Foster IDMA / Shutterstock
Ratmalana Airport, situated in the Colombo suburbs, was Sri Lanka’s first international airport before Bandaranaike International Airport opened. Today, it primarily serves domestic flights and general aviation. The airport plays a crucial role in pilot training and aircraft maintenance. Its proximity to Colombo’s city centre makes it convenient for business travellers and domestic tourists seeking quick connections to other parts of the island. The government has plans to redevelop Ratmalana as an international airport for corporate jets and small aircraft in Sri Lanka, complementing Bandaranaike International Airport.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air, Fly Southern, Helitours
Connections: Domestic destinations such as Jaffna, Batticaloa, and Trincomalee
Facilities: Small terminal building, cafeteria, taxi services
Timings: Operational during daylight hours
Suggested Read: Top Music Festivals In Sri Lanka Where You Can Chase Melodies
4. Jaffna International Airport
Photo: Tang Yan Song / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Jaffna International Airport, or Palaly Airport, serves Sri Lanka’s northern region. Recently upgraded to international status, it aims to improve connectivity to the Jaffna Peninsula and boost tourism in the area. The airport’s development is part of efforts to revitalise the northern region following the end of the civil war. While international operations are still limited, the airport has significant potential for growth, especially in connecting with South Indian cities. The upgraded facilities include a new terminal building and an extended runway to accommodate larger aircraft.
Airlines Operating: FitsAir, Alliance Air (India)
Connections: Domestic routes and limited international flights to India
Facilities: Basic terminal facilities, duty-free shop, cafe
Timings: Limited operations, primarily daytime
5. Batticaloa Airport
Photo: Airportprasad / Wikimedia Commons
Batticaloa Airport is a domestic airport serving the eastern city of Batticaloa and surrounding areas. Originally built as a Royal Air Force station during World War II, it now plays a vital role in connecting the eastern region with the rest of Sri Lanka. The airport has seen increased activity in recent years as tourism on the East Coast has grown, offering visitors quick access to the region’s beautiful beaches and cultural sites. The Sri Lankan government has plans to further develop the airport to boost regional connectivity and support local economic growth.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air, Helitours
Connections: Colombo and other domestic destinations
Facilities: Basic terminal building, waiting area
Timings: Limited operations, primarily daytime
Suggested Read: Discover The Majestic Temples In Sri Lanka
6. China Bay Airport
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
China Bay Airport, also known as Trincomalee Airport, is located near the port city of Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s east coast. The airport has a rich history, having served as a Royal Navy Air Station during World War II. Today, it operates as both a military air base and a civilian airport. While passenger traffic is limited, there are plans to develop the airport further to support tourism growth in the scenic Trincomalee area. The airport’s strategic location makes it potentially valuable for both domestic and international routes in the future.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air, Sri Lanka Air Force passenger services
Connections: Colombo and select domestic destinations
Facilities: Basic terminal facilities, waiting area
Timings: Limited civilian operations, primarily daytime
7. Sigiriya Airport
Photo: CLS Digital Arts / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Sigiriya Airport, a small domestic airport in Sri Lanka, is strategically located near the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The airport caters primarily to tourists visiting the Cultural Triangle region of Sri Lanka. Its proximity to major attractions like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Polonnaruwa makes it an important gateway for both domestic and international visitors exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The airport’s development has significantly reduced travel times for tourists, allowing for easier access to this historically significant area.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air
Connections: Colombo and select domestic destinations
Facilities: Basic waiting area, ground transportation services
Timings: Limited operations based on scheduled flights
Suggested Read: Beaches In Sri Lanka Where The Golden Sandy Shores Await You
8. Koggala Airport
Photo: calflier001 / Wikimedia Commons
Koggala Airport is a domestic airport located near the southern coastal town of Koggala, not far from the historic city of Galle. Originally built by the Royal Air Force during World War II, it now serves as a vital link for Sri Lanka’s southern tourism industry. The airport’s proximity to popular beach destinations like Unawatuna and Mirissa makes it an attractive option for travellers seeking quick access to the southern coast. There are ongoing discussions about expanding the airport’s capabilities to handle larger aircraft and potentially international flights in the future.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air, occasional charter flights
Connections: Colombo and select domestic destinations
Facilities: Small terminal building, basic waiting area
Timings: Limited operations, primarily daytime
9. Ampara Airport
Photo: muratart / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
Ampara Airport is a domestic airport serving the Ampara District in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. The airport plays a crucial role in connecting this relatively remote area with the rest of the country. While primarily used for military purposes, it also handles limited civilian traffic. Ampara Airport’s development is key to promoting tourism and economic growth in the region, which is known for its beautiful landscapes and wildlife. Future plans include improving facilities to accommodate more civilian flights and potentially expanding the runway.
Airlines Operating: Helitours, occasional chartered flights
Connections: Limited domestic routes Facilities: Basic terminal facilities
Timings: Limited civilian operations
Suggested Read: Top Things To Do In Sri Lanka For Your Next Getaway
10. Anuradhapura Airport
Photo: Longxiang Qian / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Anuradhapura Airport serves the ancient city of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most important historical and cultural sites. The airport, while small, is crucial for both tourism and pilgrimage to this UNESCO World Heritage city. Its location provides easy access to the sacred city and other attractions in the North Central Province. The airport’s development is closely tied to efforts to promote cultural tourism in Sri Lanka. There are plans to upgrade facilities and potentially extend the runway to accommodate larger aircraft, enhancing connectivity to this historically significant destination.
Airlines Operating: Cinnamon Air, occasional chartered flights
Connections: Colombo and select domestic destinations
Facilities: Small terminal building, basic passenger amenities
Timings: Limited operations based on scheduled flights
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller to Sri Lanka, understanding the airports in Sri Lanka can help you plan your journey more effectively. Each airport, with its unique character and location, offers a gateway to different facets of this beautiful island nation. As you plan your Sri Lankan adventure with TripXL, consider these diverse airports’ possibilities – they might just lead you to unexplored corners of paradise.
Cover Photo: Viacheslav Lopatin / Shutterstock / Image For Representation Only
