Since its commencement until November 2020, the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport has generated Rs. 445.3 million in revenue, said Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga. Responding to a question raised by SJB-MP Hesha Withanage during the question round for oral answers in Parliament yesterday, he said that US$ 247.7 million had been spent on the construction of the Mattala Airport.
“From the date of commencing operations until now, 10,206 aircraft have landed at the Mattala Airport, while from the date of commencement until the end of November 2020 the airport has recorded 58,651 passenger arrivals and 73,513 passenger departures. However, due to the previous Government using the Mattala Airport for storing paddy, its operations were hindered and some of the equipment installed at the Mattala Airport was taken to Katunayake,” Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.
Responding to MP Withanage, the Minister outlined the government’s plans in order to upgrade the facilities at the cargo terminal and improve cargo handling activities, recommence the operations of the Duty Free shopping complex and provide all required infrastructure facilities in order to attract commercial frights etc.
The Minister also noted that currently discussions are underway with potential investors for the commencement of a Maintenance and Repair Yard at the Mattala Airport.
