Colombo skyline to liberalise airspace for airlines
Aviation authorities are looking at improving air services agreements entered into with international carriers flying into Colombo aimed at further liberalising the airspace, a key official at the ministry said.
Aviation Ministry Secretary Dr. Ravindra Ruberu told the Business Times that they would be re-visiting the air services agreements with international airlines this year in order to increase frequencies and improve traffic rights. He noted that in terms of frequencies there would be no reduction but would look at increasing and provide more chances of travelling in and out of the country.
It was also pointed out that whenever required they would look at expanding on the maximum limit on frequencies.
In addition, discussions would also be carried out with each individual carrier pertaining to improving and liberalising traffic rights.
In this respect, Dr. Ruberu explained that this would depend on market needs and demand and authorities would look at giving more freedom for airlines to pick up passengers. This would mean that those carriers that were not allowed to fly to a third destination after landing in Colombo might be allowed that freedom in the future, he said.
Those agreements that would not be addressing today’s requirements would be looked into with the aim of re-negotiating with the respective international airlines, he said.