Authorities at SriLankan Airlines had paid the US $ 900,000 a month for three years as the lease for three aircraft despite them being grounded due to lack of engine spare parts, a minister said.

Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Rathnayake told journalists that one of these aircraft had now been put in use, and the remaining two would be in operation by April.
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Following a special discussion held at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Transport, Highways, Ports and Aviation Minister Bimal Ratnayake has decided to make the necessary arrangements for the government to begin domestic flights in the country.

The discussion, held recently at the airport, focused on the rapid increase in tourist arrivals. It was decided to expand the airport facilities as much as possible.

It was also agreed that at least 20 check-in counters should be added to the existing ones, and a site inspection was conducted for this purpose.

Additionally, the need to improve airport facilities and invite other international airlines was also emphasised. With about 12 million air passengers expected to travel annually by 2028, the Minister gave instructions to prepare for this growth.

As all these activities are linked to tourism, it is clear that these steps will help elevate tourism, one of the country’s main sources of income, to new heights.​