From handling thousands of aircraft each month to safeguarding millions of passengers, SriLankan Airport & Ground Services stands as the silent force driving Sri Lanka’s aviation efficiency and global connectivity.
SriLankan Airport & Ground Services functions as the dedicated ground handling division serving Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and Mattala International Airport. For more than four decades, SLAGS has delivered comprehensive, safe, and efficient ground handling services to SriLankan Airlines and numerous other commercial airlines operating arrivals and departures in Sri Lanka. Its reputation for operational excellence is built on consistency, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to aviation safety and security.
With over 40 years of industry experience, SLAGS has grown into a trusted aviation partner. The organization adheres to internationally recognized safety and service standards, ensuring seamless airport operations. Its achievement of the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations certification reflects alignment with global aviation safety benchmarks and reinforces confidence among international carriers operating into Sri Lanka.
As a primary ground handling partner at Bandaranaike International Airport and Mattala International Airport, SLAGS provides both passenger services and ramp services for aircraft operations. Its contribution has been instrumental in maintaining smooth, uninterrupted air travel at Sri Lanka’s key international gateways. Over the years, SLAGS has also nurtured aviation professionals who now hold senior positions at airports and airlines worldwide, demonstrating its influence on global aviation expertise.
Role in the Sri Lankan Aviation Industry
SriLankan Airport & Ground Services plays a central role in Sri Lanka’s aviation industry. As the leading ground handling service provider at the country’s major international airports, SLAGS supports full service carriers, low cost airlines, charter operations, and special flights. Its comprehensive operational framework ensures that every category of aircraft receives standardized and reliable ground support.
The organization collaborates closely with airport authorities, regulatory bodies, airline operators, and other aviation stakeholders. This coordinated approach enables efficient service delivery during peak traffic periods and ensures operational resilience even during irregular flight schedules or special circumstances.
Operational Statistics – Bandaranaike International Airport
At Bandaranaike International Airport, SLAGS manages high operational volumes that reflect the scale of Sri Lanka’s aviation activity. On average, the organization handles approximately 5,200 aircraft movements per month. It processes nearly 500,000 pieces of baggage monthly, underscoring its logistical capacity. In 2025, SLAGS supported 9.9 million passengers, highlighting its critical role in facilitating tourism, business travel, and international commerce.
Service Portfolio
SLAGS offers a comprehensive portfolio of ground handling solutions designed to meet airline operational requirements and passenger service expectations.
Passenger Services
Check in and boarding coordination
Transfer passenger assistance
Arrival and departure support
Services for passengers requiring special assistance
Support Services
Baggage and cargo loading and unloading
Load control and weight and balance management
Pushback and aircraft towing coordination
Ground operations machinery management
Maintenance and repair of ground support equipment
Safety, Quality and Compliance
Safety remains the cornerstone of all SLAGS operations. As an ISAGO certified service provider, SLAGS fosters a strong corporate safety culture supported by structured staff training, strict compliance with ICAO and IATA regulations, and adherence to local aviation authority standards. Continuous risk assessment and quality monitoring systems ensure that operational safety remains uncompromised.
Its experienced workforce, including frontline personnel and technical support teams, maintains high service standards during routine operations and special flight circumstances alike. This disciplined operational environment strengthens Sri Lanka’s aviation reliability and global reputation.
Connecting Sri Lanka to the World
SriLankan Airport & Ground Services plays a pivotal role in sustaining Sri Lanka’s air connectivity. By delivering efficient ground handling and passenger services, SLAGS ensures that visitors experience smooth arrivals and departures. At the same time, it provides dependable operational support to international airlines, strengthening Sri Lanka’s standing within global aviation networks and reinforcing its position as a strategic aviation hub in the region.
