Sri Lanka to reopen airports for arrivals today-by Irangika Range

Sri Lanka will reopen all its international airports for passenger arrivals from today following a 10-day shutdown to mitigate the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.

He said the entry of all passengers to Sri Lanka was suspended on May 21 considering the prevailing situation in the country due to COVID-19.

Minister Ranatunga added that all flights and passengers arriving Sri Lanka should strictly adhere to health guidelines. Commercial flights can each bring in a maximum of 75 passengers.

Meanwhile, all passengers arriving in the country are subject to a pre-arrival PCR test, with more testing required upon arrival. They must also stay at Quarantine Centres for 14 days. The pre-arrival PCR test requirement also applies to tourists who have received both vaccination doses. However, the ban on travellers from India will not be changed.

Meanwhile, all passengers with a travel history to Vietnam in the past 14 days will not be permitted to disembark in Sri Lanka.

The Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority Capt. Themiya Abeywickrama said all airlines have been informed in this regard.

He said the prohibition includes those arriving from Vietnam on transit to Sri Lanka as well.