Minister of Tourism, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga says that a special concession package will be offered for airlines that commence scheduled flights to the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA). The aim is to attract more international airlines to the Mattala Airport.

Accordingly, international airlines that have not previously operated to Mattala Airport are offered the complete waiver of the embarkation levy of US $ 60 for a period of two years from the date of commencement of operations to the airport. Concessions are also offered for aircraft landing and parking charges. Accordingly, discounts will be given for four years from the date of commencement of operations to Mattala Airport. Landing and parking charges will be waived off by 100% in the First year, 75% in the Second year, 50% in the Third year and 25% in the Fourth year.

The Minister, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga says that if any airline enters into an agreement to operate at least one scheduled flight per week to Mattala Airport, it is also considered to offer a 50% discount on the First year’s landing and parking charges at Katunayake Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).

The Minister, Hon. Prasanna Ranatunga has pointed out that the Covid 19 pandemic has significantly affected the global aviation industry and as a result, the entire aviation industry is in crisis. Accordingly, it was planned to implement this concession package targeting airlines that expect to commence flight operations to   Mattala Airport and measures have been taken to submit a Cabinet Memorandum in this regard for the approval of the Cabinet.