Sri Lanka fears winter booking setbacks amid Israel-Iran conflict and airspace disruption

• Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe raises concern over airspace closures in Middle East disrupting vital aviation corridors linking Europe and Asia
• Europe accounts for 50.67% of total tourist arrivals, making region critical for winter tourism
• Dubai, Doha and Chennai airports contribute 31.05% of arrivals, underscoring their importance as transit hubs
• Highlights tourism’s sensitivity to geopolitical instability

Tourism Deputy Minister Prof. Ruwan Ranasinghe on Friday expressed concern over the impact of the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, noting that the crisis could hinder forward bookings for winter with already disrupted air routes.

Addressing a media briefing, he acknowledged that the authorities are watching the unfolding geopolitical situation with unease. 

“This is usually the time to get bookings for winter and we are concerned,” he said.

With many countries surrounding the two countries having closed their airspace indefinitely, the Deputy Minister said it has created immediate logistical and commercial challenges for airlines and tourism-dependent countries like Sri Lanka.

“The conflict’s most tangible blow has fallen on international aviation. These closures have effectively served some of the world’s most vital aviation corridors, particularly those linking Europe to Asia,” he said, adding that the majority of winter tourists are using these routes and airport hubs.

As per Sri Lanka Tourism Development (SLTDA) analysis of tourist arrivals by region, shows that Europe remains the leading source of tourists to Sri Lanka, accounting for 50.67% of total arrivals. This dominant share underscores Europe’s strong affinity for Sri Lanka as a preferred travel destination, likely driven by cultural ties, effective marketing strategies, and well-established travel routes.

Airlines including, country’s flag carrier—SriLankan Airlines are now being forced to reroute flights across longer paths. The diversions often necessitate fuel costs increases when companies are already navigating narrow margins. These increased operating expenses are expected to filter down to consumers through higher ticket prices, potentially dampening travel demand. 

He said the disruption is particularly acute for carriers transiting through the Middle East. “Major transit hubs such as Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, widely used by tourists from Europe en route to Asia, unfortunately sit close to the conflict zone, leading many to reconsider or postpone travel plans,” he said.

Dubai, Doha, and Chennai are key departure points for tourists heading to Sri Lanka, accounting for 31.05% of total arrivals. This highlights the critical role these airports play in connecting international travelers to Sri Lanka. Their strategic locations, high connectivity, and frequent flights make them essential gateways, efficiently funneling a large number of tourists to the country. The prominence of these airports is likely due to their status as major hubs in the Middle East and South Asia, offering convenient travel options for visitors from a range of global destinations.

The winter travel season which starts from November to March is considered the peak period for visiting Sri Lanka and European tourists traditionally account for a significant portion of arrivals. 

The winter season is vital not only for leisure travel, but also diaspora visits and long-stay tourists, particularly from Germany, the UK, France and the Nordics—all regions that heavily rely on Middle East airlines for connectivity. 

The industry fears a sustained disturbance to these routes could undercut Sri Lanka’s broader arrivals and revenue targets. 

Prof. Ranasinghe said tourism is extremely sensitive to global events. “The signals matter as much as the direct impact.” (CdeS)