The Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation has announced that all international flights arriving in Sri Lanka will be required to divert to either Trivandrum or Cochin airports in India if adverse weather conditions prevent safe landing at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

According to the Minister, this directive is part of enhanced safety measures introduced to ensure uninterrupted air travel operations during severe weather events. Authorities emphasized that passenger safety remains the top priority and that coordination with regional airports has been strengthened to facilitate smooth diversions when necessary.

The Civil Aviation Authority and airport management are closely monitoring prevailing weather patterns, while airlines have been instructed to remain prepared for possible rerouting until conditions improve.