State Minister of Aviation and Export Zones Development, D.V. Chanaka said this week that international flights would commence from Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana on January 29.
In particular, flights from South India, Male and Bangladesh via India to Ratmalana will be from Ratmalana Airport, the minister said according to a media release issued by his office.
These facts were revealed during a discussion on the development of the Ratmalana Airport held at the State Ministry of Aviation and Export Zones Development. Secretary to the Ministry Janaka Chandragupta, Chairman of Airports and Aviation Retired Major General G.A. Chandrasiri, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority Upul Dharmadasa and Director General Captain Themiya Abeywickrama were also present at the discussion.
The Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana was established in 1938 and regional international flights were not operational due to the commencement of flights from Katunayake International Airport in 1968. Mr. Chanaka said that steps have already been taken to launch new regional international flights using the resources available at the Ratmalana Airport.
Two airlines have already agreed to launch regional international flights based on India and the Maldives. The minister said talks were underway with several other airlines and those discussions were positive. He said steps have been taken to develop the Ratmalana International Airport in several key areas. It is also being developed as a local aviation hub, recreational aviation hub and aviation training center. In addition, measures will be taken to promote encouraging private jets to Sri Lanka targeting high income earners and to meet the requirements of technical and parking services for private jets such as jet refueling.
In addition, promotions are expected to be launched at Ratmalana Airport for international commercial and corporate flights.
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