Sri Lanka is set to embark on a comprehensive digital transformation of its aviation sector, with the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation working closely with the Ministry of Digital Affairs to fully digitalise all airport services, strengthening efficiency and enhancing the passenger experience.

The initiative was revealed during a high level review meeting chaired by President Anura Kumara Dissanayake at the Presidential Secretariat on 15 July, where progress of the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation during 2026 and priorities for the 2027 Budget were assessed.

The meeting reviewed the performance of key institutions, including the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA), Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. (AASL), SriLankan Airlines, the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), the Ceylon Shipping Corporation, SriLankan Catering, the Merchant Shipping Secretariat, Jaya Container Terminals Ltd. and other affiliated organisations.

President Dissanayake was also briefed on strategic infrastructure projects under the Sri Lanka Ports Development Programme, supported by the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India. Key initiatives include the rehabilitation of Kankesanthurai Port, the proposed Logistics Park at the Port of Colombo, the southern breakwater extension, the second phase of the Western Container Terminal, and the digitalisation of port operations.

The President also reviewed a long term master plan to modernise Bandaranaike International Airport, aiming to increase annual passenger handling capacity to 24.2 million by 2055. He directed officials to strengthen coordination with the Sri Lanka Air Force for domestic airport operations and improve passenger transport services.

Meanwhile, officials revealed that Mattala International Airport is recording annual losses of around Rs. 4 billion, while investment proposals are expected to be finalised by 2027 to improve its long term commercial viability.