Breaking News
Shalini
Shalini
May 05 2026
41Private taxi operators at Bandaranaike International Airport have warned of possible job losses and service disruptions as declining tourist arrivals and rising operating costs continue to strain their businesses.
Operators say the current downturn, driven by lower arrivals, seasonal factors, and external pressures such as Middle East tensions and high airfares, has sharply reduced demand for airport transport services.
They noted that each operator is required to maintain a fleet of around 12 vehicles and a dedicated counter staff, with the total workforce across operators exceeding 250 employees, all of whom are now at risk if conditions do not improve.
In addition, operators said they pay monthly rentals exceeding Rs. 4 million to airport authorities, adding to their financial burden at a time of reduced income.
They also raised concerns over what they describe as an uneven competitive environment, claiming that meter-based operators are allowed to function at significantly lower costs, including reduced rental and advertising fees within the airport premises.
According to them, advertising space inside the airport is priced at around Rs. 2 million for some operators, while others reportedly pay substantially lower rates, further widening the gap.
“We are struggling to sustain operations under the current conditions and have requested a temporary relief package until arrivals recover,” operators said, noting that a proposal for a 50% rental reduction over three months has yet to receive a favourable response.
They warned that failure to address these concerns could lead to staff reductions, impacting livelihoods and service quality.
Operators also highlighted their role in supporting Sri Lanka’s high-end tourism segment, providing transport for visiting dignitaries, international personalities, and premium travellers.
Any disruption to these services, they said, could affect the country’s ability to cater to upscale tourism markets.
Source: Hiru News
