British Airways to start direct London Gatwick–Colombo flights

British Airways is bringing back a direct service between London Gatwick and Colombo, starting on 23 October 2026. The route will operate three times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, throughout the 2026/27 winter season, using Boeing 777 aircraft.

The outbound flight leaves Gatwick at 17:30 and reaches Colombo at 09:00 the following morning. The return service departs Colombo at 11:00. Passengers can choose from three cabin options, and the airline has advertised return fares beginning at £620 with taxes and carrier charges included, as reported on 14 Oct 2026, though the final cost depends on availability.

The carrier last had a direct presence on this route in 2015. According to Sri Lanka Tourism, the UK ranks as the island's second-biggest source of overseas visitors, with more than 170,000 British travellers recorded so far in 2026.

What it means for travellers from India

• The new nonstop gives travellers an additional way to reach Colombo, with a winter schedule of three flights weekly from London Gatwick.
• Return fares begin at £620 with taxes and carrier charges included, as reported on 14 Oct 2026, though the actual price depends on seat availability.
• Travellers combining a UK stopover with a Sri Lanka visit may find the link useful, since it connects the two countries on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.