The Travel Agents Association of Sri Lanka (TAASL), the official voice of the country’s travel agents, has made history with the appointment of Sonali Ranasinghe as its new President at the Association’s 50th Annual General Meeting, held on 8th September 2025.

Ranasinghe becomes the first woman to hold the presidency of TAASL, marking a milestone not only for the Association but also for the Sri Lankan travel and tourism industry as a whole.

With over three decades of experience in the airline and travel industry, Ranasinghe brings deep expertise, strong industry relationships, and a proven track record of leadership. In her inaugural address, she expressed gratitude to the TAASL Executive Council, industry mentors, and colleagues for their support, while dedicating this achievement to the many women whose contributions have strengthened the travel trade over the years.

“As the first female President of TAASL, this moment is both a personal honour and a collective achievement,” said Ranasinghe. “Our industry has been shaped by countless women who work with strength, purpose, and resilience. It is my commitment to represent their voices while working towards a stronger, more united future for all our members.”

During her tenure, Ranasinghe has outlined three key priorities for TAASL:

Training & Development – Introducing practical, hands-on training programs to upskill members in digital tools, regulatory compliance, and service excellence. Stronger Collaboration with Airlines – Building transparent, solution-oriented partnerships with airline partners to address operational challenges and improve efficiency. Diplomatic & Government Relations – Enhancing engagement with embassies and consulates to streamline visa processes and provide timely updates for members.

Founded over 50 years ago, TAASL continues to play a pivotal role in representing Sri Lanka’s travel agents, acting as the bridge between members, government authorities, airlines, and the international travel community.

Ranasinghe pledged to lead TAASL with integrity, transparency, and accountability, building on the Association’s proud legacy while steering it towards innovation and growth in a rapidly evolving global travel landscape.