Expression of Interest (EOI) has been called for the development of Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) in Mattala, said Minister of Shipping and Aviation, Nimal Siripala de Silva.
Following the selection of an investor by the Tender Board, negotiations are nearing conclusion, with the possibility of reaching an agreement next week.
This endeavour, proposed as a joint Russian and Indian private project, holds the potential to render the airport profitable. Only a few charters and flights from Russia arrive at the MRIA.
The Minister said, “Negotiations have commenced with Indigo Airlines to introduce an additional daily flight service to India via Palali Airport.
Plans are under way to introduce 31 ticket windows and a new terminal building to reduce congestion at the Katunayake Airport, with construction slated to begin within two weeks”, the minister said.
The JICA Chairman has pledged funds for the construction of the second terminal building following discussions with President Ranil Wickremesinghe.
The Minister said the deadline for expressing interest in the restructuring of SriLankan Airlines has been extended till March 15.
He said an air service agreement will be signed between Israel and Sri Lanka which will mark the beginning of direct flights between Israel and Sri Lanka.
