Sri Lanka to Operate Special Flights as Middle East Airspace Reopens Gradually

Colombo, Sri Lanka – Sri Lanka will operate several special international flights today as parts of the Middle East airspace gradually reopen, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).
Director General Daminda Rambukwella confirmed that seven special flights are scheduled, with airlines cautiously resuming operations after disruptions caused by tensions in parts of the Middle East.
SriLankan Airlines Flights to Dubai and Riyadh
SriLankan Airlines will operate two key flights today, connecting Colombo with major Middle Eastern destinations
- Colombo to Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Colombo to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
These routes are among the most important for Sri Lankan migrant workers and travelers in the Gulf region.
Middle East Airspace Gradually Reopening
According to Rambukwella, airspace restrictions that previously disrupted aviation operations are now easing.
Countries including
- Oman
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
have reopened significant portions of their airspace, allowing airlines to resume flights, though some restrictions remain.
This gradual reopening has enabled airlines to increase flight frequencies compared to the past few days, signaling a slow return to normal aviation operations.
Airlines Operating Flights to Sri Lanka Today
Several international and regional airlines are operating flights today despite the ongoing situation
- FitsAir – operating one flight to Dubai
- SalamAir – arriving in Sri Lanka with passengers and departing again
- Flydubai – arriving from Dubai and departing after passenger transfer
- Etihad Airways – operating scheduled services
- Qatar Airways – expected to operate one flight
- Emirates – initially planned two flights, but is likely to operate one
Aviation Sector Hopeful of Normal Operations
Civil Aviation officials say airlines remain optimistic about gradually restoring regular flight schedules as more Middle Eastern airspace reopens.
Rambukwella added that around eight flights have already operated today, showing signs of recovery in regional aviation connectivity.
The Civil Aviation Authority continues to monitor the situation closely to ensure safe travel for passengers and airline crews.


