British Airways to start Gatwick–Colombo seasonal flights

British Airways is launching a seasonal service between London Gatwick and Colombo, Sri Lanka, starting on 23 October. According to Travel Daily Media, the route will operate three times a week throughout the 2026/27 winter season, giving UK travellers a direct option to reach the island during a peak travel period.

Route and cabins

The flights will be offered by British Airways in three cabins: World Traveller, World Traveller Plus and Club World. Travel Daily Media reports that return fares start from £620, including taxes and carrier fees. The source does not give flight times, aircraft type or days of operation.

Demand from UK visitors

The airline's move comes in response to rising demand from British holidaymakers, according to the report. It says more than 170,000 Britons visited Sri Lanka in 2026, making the UK the island's second-largest source market. The report highlights the island's UNESCO-listed sites, wildlife safaris, food and wellness retreats as draws for visitors.

Sarangi Thilakasena, Deputy Director of Marketing at the Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau, welcomed the service. She said the new route "makes it even easier for British travellers to discover the island during the winter season."

Timing and promotion

The launch coincides with the upcoming World Travel Market London, where Sri Lanka Tourism is due to meet the UK travel trade and media to promote the destination, according to Travel Daily Media.

What this means for travellers

• Direct option from Gatwick: travellers in the south of England gain a direct service to Colombo, running three times weekly rather than daily.
• Seasonal only: the route is planned for the 2026/27 winter season, so it should not be treated as a year-round service. The end date has not been given in the source.
• Fares: the £620 return figure is a starting price, and the source does not say which cabin it applies to. Fares in other cabins and at busy periods may be higher.
• Onward travel: Colombo may offer another carrier choice for travellers heading on to South Asia and South-East Asia, though the source does not describe onward connections or partner arrangements.

Travellers should check the airline's booking pages for the exact schedule and availability.

Sources: Travel Daily Media