Question 1

What is the IATA code for Bentota River Airport?

Accepted Answer

Bentota River Airport is designated by the IATA code BJT. It is a domestic aerodrome serving seaplane connections to and from Colombo, and it has no international passenger facilities.

Question 2

How long is the seaplane flight from Colombo to Bentota?

Accepted Answer

The Cinnamon Air seaplane between Colombo Airport and Bentota River takes around 30 minutes. This compares with roughly 90 minutes by road via the Southern Expressway under good traffic conditions.

Question 3

Can I book a direct flight to Bentota from overseas?

Accepted Answer

No international commercial flights operate into Bentota River Airport. International travellers must arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo, clear customs and immigration, and then connect to the domestic Cinnamon Air seaplane service or travel by road.

Question 4

Is the seaplane to Bentota safe?

Accepted Answer

Cinnamon Air operates under Sri Lanka's Civil Aviation Authority regulations and has an established safety record as the country's primary domestic seaplane carrier. Flights may be cancelled or rescheduled during adverse weather, particularly during the southwest monsoon season.

Question 5

What is the luggage allowance on Cinnamon Air seaplanes?

Accepted Answer

Luggage allowances on Cinnamon Air seaplanes are typically around 15 kg per passenger due to aircraft weight limits, though it is best to confirm directly with the airline at the time of booking. Oversized items such as surfboards or large dive bags are generally not accepted.

Question 6

What is the best way to get from Colombo Airport to Bentota?

Accepted Answer

A private car via the Southern Expressway takes around 90 minutes and is the most flexible option for resort-bound travellers with luggage. The Cinnamon Air seaplane is faster and more scenic but requires advance booking and is subject to weather disruptions. Trains from Colombo Fort to Bentota station are a budget-friendly alternative, with the coastal route offering pleasant views.

Question 7

What activities are available near Bentota River Airport?

Accepted Answer

Bentota and its river estuary offer a range of activities including boat safaris through mangrove lagoons, turtle conservation visits at nearby hatcheries, watersports on the beach, and ayurveda treatments at riverside resorts. Crocodile watching and birdwatching in the wetlands are also popular with visitors.

Question 8

Does Bentota River Airport operate year-round?

Accepted Answer

Scheduled seaplane services typically operate year-round, but flights can be suspended or reduced during the southwest monsoon season, which runs roughly from May to October. Travellers should confirm availability with Cinnamon Air and arrange a road transfer backup if their travel dates fall during this period.

Airline	Destinations
Cinnamon Air	Colombo–Bandaranaike

Bentota River Airport

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