• British Airways celebrates its return to Colombo, reintroducing direct services between Sri Lanka and the UK for the first time since 2015
• New three-times-weekly service between Colombo and London Gatwick will operate throughout the winter season
• To celebrate its return, British Airways is offering discounted World Traveller return fares, with prices starting from LKR 255,000
• Searches on ba.com for flights from London to Colombo have increased by more than 10% in the past week

British Airways yesterday (24) marked a significant milestone with the arrival of its first flight into Colombo, reconnecting Sri Lanka with the UK for the first time in more than 11 years.

The inaugural flight operated by Sri Lankan crew, was welcomed by traditional dancers and drummers on arrival to commemorate the occasion. The new route strengthens links between the two countries, supporting tourism, trade and business travel.

The three-times-weekly service will be operated by British Airways’ Boeing 777 fleet, featuring Club World (business class), World Traveller Plus (premium economy) and World Traveller (economy) cabins.

To celebrate the launch, British Airways is offering special return fares with savings of up to 10% in World Traveller, starting from LKR 255,000 for travel from Colombo to London Gatwick.

Neil Chernoff, British Airways' Chief Planning and Strategy Officer, said: “Today marks a special moment for British Airways as we touch down in Colombo for the first time in more than a decade, bringing Sri Lanka back to our global network and giving customers greater choice when planning their next getaway.

“Sri Lanka is renowned for its warmth, rich culture and hospitality, and we’re delighted to be flying there once again. To celebrate, we’re offering special fares and look forward to welcoming customers on board.”

Commenting on the occasion, Ruwan Waidyaratne, Managing Director of Hayleys Advantis Limited, said: “The commencement of British Airways’ flight operations to Colombo marks a significant milestone in enhancing air connectivity between Sri Lanka and the UK. The service will offer customers greater travel options while supporting tourism and business travel between the two markets, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with British Airways.”

Pradeeb Vimalraj, Senior First Officer, who operated the airline’s inaugural flight, said: “As a Sri Lankan, born and raised in Jaffna in my early years, bringing our first flight back home after more than a decade was particularly special. The warm welcome we received made it even more memorable, and I’m so proud to be part of this new chapter connecting Sri Lanka and the UK.”

The new service gives customers travelling from the UK direct access to one of South Asia’s most captivating destinations. From golden beaches and ancient cultural sites to wildlife reserves, tea country and a thriving food scene, Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers to discover.

Searches on ba.com for flights from London to Colombo have increased by more than 10% in the past week, reflecting continued interest in the destination*.