October 04, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka has taken a significant step towards revitalising its domestic aviation sector, with the Civil Aviation Authority announcing the clearance of 22 additional terminals for seaplane operations following thorough safety and infrastructure inspections.
The announcement marks a notable expansion in water-based aviation, which is being actively promoted as part of a broader strategy to enhance connectivity and support tourism-led economic growth.
The Authority also revealed that regulatory processes are in motion to authorise seaplane activity in the vicinity of the Colombo Port City, a key hub in the capital’s ongoing urban and commercial development.
In a related move, two new helipads are set to be introduced in central Colombo, aimed at facilitating faster intercity travel and boosting high-end tourism services. These developments are part of a growing partnership between the state and private investors to upgrade Sri Lanka’s domestic aviation landscape, with particular emphasis on attracting tourists to lesser-accessible regions of the country.
Adding to the momentum, a new seaplane route connecting Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake to central Colombo was officially launched yesterday. The service, which utilises Beira Lake as a designated water aerodrome, is expected to significantly cut down travel time for visitors and business travellers arriving in the capital.
Seaplane operations are not entirely new to Sri Lanka. A similar service briefly operated in 2011 and 2012 but was discontinued amid tightening national security protocols and operational hurdles.
Officials now believe the sector is ready for a relaunch, with modernised safety frameworks, improved infrastructure, and growing interest from private operators creating favourable conditions for sustained growth.
