A special programme is being implemented to attract new airlines to the Mattala Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport.
Accordingly, discussions were held with all airlines arriving in the country regarding the commencement of flights to Mattala Airport, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.
The Minister also stated that he hopes to take further action in this regard once the current COVID-19 situation is brought under control.
One year landing and stopping charges have been waived for airlines (Scheduled Airlines) designed as a means of attracting aircraft and passengers arriving at the Mattala International Airport. Embarkation Tax is exempt for two years. Preliminary discussions with airlines such as Lot Polish, Lion Air, Air Astana,Ukraine Airlines, Indigo, Alliance Air, Air India, Emirates, Air Vistara, Moldavian Air, Salam Air regarding the launch of new flights to Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, have been held according to the Minister's media unit.
As a result, eight airlines have made new flights through Mattala Airport from time to time recently.These airlines are Scoot, Air Astana, Moldavian Air, Ukraine Air, Indigo Air, Salam Air and Emirates.
As at March 31, the Mattala Airport operated 687 flights with over 33,450 passengers.