EOIs to be called to develop Mattala airport as multipurpose biz centre

The Cabinet nod has been granted to call for expression of interest (EOI) from investors and strategic entrepreneurs to transform Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) into a multipurpose business centre, on a public-private partnership basis.

Ports, Shipping and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva this week sought the approval of the Cabinet of Ministers to call for EOIs from investors and strategic entrepreneurs engaged in direct and indirect aviation-related enterprises for carrying out aeronautical and non-aeronautical businesses at MRIA.

According to the layout of MRIA, the Government Information Department noted that there is a potential to transform the airport into a multipurpose business centre by implementing business opportunities related to air operations as well as other non-air operations. 

“Therefore, the focus is on taking measures to effectively utilise Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport facilities and assets by creating public-private partnership investment opportunities,” it said.