The Sri Lankan government is considering transforming the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport (Mattala Airport) into an aircraft repair center in collaboration with a suitable foreign partner, Minister Bimal Ratnayake announced in Parliament today.
Speaking during the committee stage debate on the budget, the minister highlighted the financial burden of the airport, stating:
- The construction cost of Mattala Airport was Rs. 36.5 billion.
- Total losses over the past five years have amounted to Rs. 38.5 billion.
The government aims to turn the airport into a profit-making venture by repurposing it for aircraft repairs, ensuring better economic viability.
