SL airports record increased passenger movements

Sri Lanka Airports have recorded an increase in passenger arrival and departure movements in 2024, surpassing the 8.8 million mark highlighting the vital role that country’s aviation infrastructure plays in connecting the region and facilitating travel, trade and commerce.

The country’s airports, including the main gateway Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), the Jaffna International Airport (JIA) and the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), recorded an increase in passenger arrivals and departures in 2024, surpassing the 8.8 million mark, the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL) said.

The country witnessed 8.88 million passenger movements, 56,289 aircraft movements and 192,498 metric tonnes of cargo movements last year representing a growth of 17.69% in passenger movements, 20.69% in aircraft movements and 21.13% in cargo movements.

Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited Chairman Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) Harsha Abeywickrema said that Sri Lanka continues to position itself as a key aviation hub in the Asia-Pacific region.

He added that these milestones showcase the immense potential for future growth and development in the country’s aviation industry. Achieving over 8 million passenger movements is a testament to the strength and resilience of Sri Lanka’s aviation sector and serves as a promising indicator of continued progress toward achieving the government’s tourism targets.

“We are delighted by the contributions of our valued international airline partners, tourism partners, and all other stakeholders to Sri Lanka’s aviation and tourism landscape.We extend our heartfelt gratitude to them for their exceptional support,” he added.

According to Airport and Aviation Services Limited Corporate Communications head Sumith Silva the healthy increase in passenger traffic is attributed to several factors, including the expansion of airline services and strategic initiatives aimed at boosting tourism. “The improved connectivity has not only benefited travellers but also contributed significantly to the nation’s economy by increasing tourists,”, he said.

Silva said that the Bandaranaike International Airport served more than 30 airlines in 2024, including major international carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Etihad Airways, Air India, IndiGo, Turkish Airlines in addition, to the national carrier, SriLankan Airlines.

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