Government discussions with local and foreign investors cover aircraft maintenance, storage and supporting commercial facilities, but the final investment model remains undecided.
Nineteen investors initially expressed interest in developing Sri Lanka’s Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), with the Government now holding discussions with interested local and international parties.
Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), Captain Daminda Rambukwella, confirmed the discussions while speaking to local media in Colombo.
According to Rambukwella, the proposals cover several aviation-related activities, including aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), larger hangars, aircraft parking and storage facilities.
Other proposals involve supporting commercial services, including hotels and leisure facilities.
The aim is to attract aircraft operators and aviation-related businesses to Mattala by creating additional commercial opportunities at the airport.
These developments could broaden the airport’s activities beyond its existing aviation operations and support businesses connected to the wider industry.
Infrastructure Requirements Under Discussion
Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (AASL) is discussing the infrastructure needed to support the proposed developments.
The requirements include improved road access, water supply and other facilities necessary for the proposed aviation and commercial operations.
Rambukwella said the development proposals had also been presented to the President.
However, discussions have not yet resulted in a final decision on how the investment and operational arrangements will be structured.
Asked whether the development would proceed through a public-private partnership (PPP), Rambukwella said no final decision had been reached.
Commercial and investment arrangements remain under consideration by AASL and the relevant Government authorities.
Consequently, the terms under which private investors could participate in the airport’s development have yet to be finalised.
CAASL Clarifies Its Regulatory Role
Rambukwella also distinguished the CAASL’s regulatory responsibilities from the commercial responsibilities of the other institutions involved.
He explained that the CAASL oversees aviation safety and security rather than making investment decisions or managing the airport’s commercial development.
The authority continues to conduct safety and security audits at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport, including monthly inspections, to monitor compliance with applicable requirements.
The investment discussions are therefore proceeding separately from the CAASL’s ongoing regulatory oversight.
While interest from 19 potential investors indicates a range of proposed uses for the airport, the Government has yet to announce a final investment structure or confirm agreements for the developments.
