In a bid to boost tourism, Sri Lanka lifted a 25-year ban on the operation of helicopter flights by private operators from Colombo.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, private tourist helicopters can now land at the Defence Ministry grounds on Galle Face in Colombo. Four local operators have been granted permission to re-start flights.
Many high-spending tourists prefer to travel quickly between major tourist sites on the island while enjoying the scenic views provided by helicopter flights.