British Airways to Relaunch London Gatwick–Colombo Route for First Time Since 2015

British Airways is relaunching its London Gatwick–Colombo route on 23 October 2026, operating three weekly return services on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The airline last flew the route in 2015, and the relaunch responds to strong UK tourism demand for Sri Lanka as well as interest from the Sri Lankan diaspora in Britain. Outbound flight BA2045 departs Gatwick at 17:30, arriving Colombo at 09:00 the following day; the return BA2044 departs Colombo at 11:00 and lands at Gatwick at 17:00. Three cabin classes are offered: World Traveller (economy), World Traveller Plus (premium economy), and Club World (business), with return fares starting from £620 including taxes and carrier charges. The route is seasonal, covering the 2026/27 winter schedule. Sri Lanka Tourism has been actively courting UK visitors for the winter season, promoting the island's beaches, heritage sites, and wildlife ahead of the launch. Travel analysts described the move as a significant boost for Sri Lankan inbound tourism.