A special programme to export local vegetables and fruits has been launched through the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA).

Accordingly, the aircraft carrying the first shipment of local vegetables and fruits flew from Mattala airport to Muscat, Oma yesterday, said MRIA General Manager Upul Kalansuriya.
A consignment of 3,371 kilos of Sri Lankan grown vegetables and fruits was flown by Salam Airways flight OV 1432 to Oman from the Mattala Rajapaksa Airport.

Salam Air, the first low cost airline in Oman operated an inbound flight to MRIA on August 15th, with 150 passengers onboard. The outward flight to Muscat carried 14 passengers and the 3371 kg of cargo comprising Sri Lankan vegetables and fruits.

Ravi de Silva, Assistant Airport Manager of Salam Air said it was the first time the airline flew to MRIA and they are pleased with the facilities.

“Today, for the first time, we are taking a consignment of Sri Lankan-produced vegetables and fruits to Oman. We hope to implement a special programme based on MRIA to transport Sri Lankan vegetables and fruits to various countries in the future,” he said.