There is exciting news for those considering Sri Lanka this winter and in years to come. British Airways (BA) has confirmed it will launch a new direct route from London Gatwick to Colombo, starting on 23 October 2026.

This are available to book as of the 17th March 2026. The service will operate three times a week throughout the winter season, restoring a direct connection that has been absent for several years. For many of our clients, this is a particularly welcome development, making travel to Sri Lanka simpler and more convenient from the UK or connecting through the UK.

One of the reasons Sri Lanka remains such a special destination is the sheer variety it offers within a relatively small island. In just a few hours, travellers can move from palm fringed beaches to the cool hills of the tea country, or from bustling towns to national parks rich in wildlife.

The return of a direct British Airways service means our clients have another direct option along with Sri Lankan Airlines, so there's less need for a stopover in the middle east. This direct option is also brilliant for families that just want to get to Sri Lanka.

Passengers will be able to choose from World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World cabins, with return fares expected to start from around £620 including taxes and fees. Tickets are due to go on sale from 17 March 2026.

The timing of the route is ideal, aligning with Sri Lanka’s most popular travel season. This makes it perfect for combining beach stays with cultural touring or wildlife experiences.

We see this as a very positive step for travel to Sri Lanka and works brilliantly with our bespoke tours of Sri Lanka. Greater accessibility makes planning easier and gives more travellers the opportunity to explore the island in depth, whether on a tailor made itinerary, a guided journey, or a carefully balanced combination of both.

If you are planning a trip and would like to better understand when to travel, do check out our Sri Lanka Weather Guide for more information. Please also take a look at our Sri Lanka itineraries for inspiration as well.

If you have been thinking about Sri Lanka for a winter escape, this new direct route makes it an even more appealing and convenient option.