Hon. Chandima Hettiaratchi
2026-03-04
Hon. Champika Hettiarachchi highlighted that while Sri Lanka's tourist arrivals have reached their highest level since the 2018 peak — despite the Easter attacks, COVID-19, and the economic crisis — Bandaranaike International Airport continues to face operational challenges, including delays at Immigration, baggage claim, and vehicle access. The member posed four specific questions to the Minister regarding January 2026 passenger throughput figures, projected throughput for the following year, the necessity of a second passenger terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport, and the timelines and plans for its development alongside the expansion of domestic airports.
Hon. Presiding Member, the highest number of tourists before the recent crises came in 2018. Despite Easter attacks, COVID-19 and the economic downturn, last year recorded the highest number of tourist arrivals since. However, many issues remain at the airport due to inadequate facilities — delays at Immigration, baggage claim, and getting vehicles into the car porch. The Government is undertaking development at the airport. I ask the Hon. Minister:
1) What was the total passenger throughput in January 2026?
2) What is the expected passenger throughput next year?
3) Do you agree that a second passenger terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport is essential to meet targets?
4) If so, what are the plans and timelines? And what plans exist to develop domestic airports?
I look forward to the Minister’s reply.