Sri Lanka weighs proposal to reduce foreign flight charges 

A number of measures have been announced to collectively boost the tourism industry with arrivals picking up and Lonely Planet reiterating its stance on Sri Lanka being its top travel destination for 2019.

The reduction of charges relating to ground handling costs, aviation fuel and the embarkation levy for all international flights for the next six months is one such measure that is currently underway on behalf of the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA), in association with the Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Tourism Development and Christian Religious Affairs, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.

This move comes as a result of reduced flight frequencies, loss of direct air connectivity and the overall loss of seat supply in the aftermath of the deadly terrorist attacks. Over 98 percent of Sri Lanka’s tourists are brought by international airlines and therefore, this decision is set to promote and revive the industry.

According to Chairman and Managing Director of SLTDA Johanne Jayaratne, “the authority will be working closely with the Board of Airline Representatives (BAR) and the Sri Lanka Association of Airline Representatives (SLAAR) to ensure that these lowered rates are reflected in the airline ticket pricing going forward.”

These specially priced tickets are to be combined with discounts offered by hotels and restaurants in Sri Lanka.