UK travellers now have another direct flight option to Colombo, as British Airways has returned to Sri Lanka after more than 11 years.
The airline operated its first flight into Colombo on October 24. The new service will operate three times a week between London Gatwick and Colombo using British Airways’ Boeing 777 aircraft.
To mark the return, British Airways is offering special fares with savings of up to 10% in World Traveller, with return fares starting from LKR 255,000 for travel from Colombo to London Gatwick.
Three Cabin Options for Travellers
The Boeing 777 service will offer three cabin choices. Travellers can choose Club World, the airline’s business class cabin, World Traveller Plus premium economy, or World Traveller economy.
This gives passengers different options based on their travel needs and budget.
The return of the route also gives UK travellers direct access to Colombo when planning holidays in Sri Lanka.
British Airways said searches on its website for flights from London to Colombo increased by more than 10% during the past week. The airline said this reflects continued interest in the destination.
The route also provides a direct connection for people travelling between the UK and Sri Lanka for business, family visits and tourism.
Hayleys Advantis Supports the New Route
Hayleys Advantis Limited is working with British Airways on the new service.
Ruwan Waidyaratne, Managing Director of Hayleys Advantis Limited, said the new flight service will improve air connectivity between Sri Lanka and the UK.
He said the service will give customers more travel options while supporting tourism and business travel between the two markets.
The first flight was operated by a Sri Lankan crew. Senior First Officer Pradeeb Vimalraj, who operated the inaugural flight, said returning to Sri Lanka after more than a decade was particularly special for him.
The arrival was also marked with a traditional welcome featuring dancers and drummers.
For UK travellers, the new service provides a direct route to Colombo and easier access to Sri Lanka’s beaches, cultural sites, wildlife reserves, tea country and food experiences.
British Airways Chief Planning and Strategy Officer Neil Chernoff said the return to Colombo gives customers more choice when planning their next trip.
With three flights each week now connecting London and Colombo, the route adds another option for travellers planning their next journey between the UK and Sri Lanka.
Last modified: October 25, 2026
