Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) has recorded the highest number of passengers handled in a single month in its operational history, according to the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation.
The Ministry confirmed that a total of 1,045,097 passengers were processed in January, setting a new monthly benchmark for the state-owned airport operator.
The previous record stood at 1,034,687 passengers, which was recorded in January 2018. The latest figure therefore surpasses the earlier peak and marks a historic milestone for the country’s aviation sector.
Officials noted that the achievement reflects a strong recovery in international air travel and sustained growth in passenger volumes. Increased tourist arrivals, improved flight connectivity and expanding airline operations have contributed to the surge in traffic.
The record performance also signals strengthening momentum in the broader travel and tourism ecosystem. Higher passenger throughput supports growth across aviation services, ground handling, retail concessions, and airport-related logistics operations.
Industry observers point out that rising passenger volumes generate increased foreign exchange inflows and strengthen the aviation sector’s contribution to national economic performance. The development comes amid improving macroeconomic conditions and renewed confidence in the travel sector.
The Ministry further indicated that sustained growth in passenger handling capacity remains a priority. Infrastructure upgrades, operational efficiency improvements and service quality enhancements continue to support higher throughput levels.
The January milestone positions Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) on a firm trajectory as travel demand continues to rebound. If the current trend persists, 2026 could emerge as a record year for passenger movements, reinforcing the aviation sector’s role as a key driver of economic recovery and connectivity.
Last modified: February 18, 2026
