Passengers could one day fly from Katunayake to Colombo by electric passenger drone for an estimated USD 20 to USD 30 per trip, if Sri Lanka’s proposed passenger drone service becomes a reality.
A pilot demonstration zone for the service has been proposed in Colombo and Port City as authorities explore the introduction of passenger drones to support tourism, emergency response and maritime navigation.
The proposal was discussed at a high-level meeting held at the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation under the patronage of Minister Anura Karunatilaka.
EHang representatives presented details of the proposed electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which can carry two passengers and operate using electric power.
The proposed aircraft use 16 propulsion fans and are equipped with multiple safety systems, including 12 battery packs and triple flight-control systems. They are designed to operate automatically through a central command station using artificial intelligence technology.
Potential tourism applications include aerial sightseeing over destinations such as Sigiriya and Pidurangala, while urban passenger transport between Colombo and Port City is also being considered.
However, the proposed service must first obtain regulatory and safety approvals from the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation and the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.
The project will also require coordination with several agencies, including the Ministry of Defence, Sri Lanka Air Force, Telecommunications Regulatory Commission, Board of Investment of Sri Lanka, Port City Commission, Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority and Airport and Aviation Services.
Minister Karunatilaka emphasized that passenger safety and regulatory compliance would remain key priorities before any commercial operations are permitted.
