The Cabinet of Ministers has approved a proposal to extend the concessionary period exempting airlines operating scheduled flights to and from Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) from the deviation tax until June 26, 2027.
The exemption was first introduced following a Cabinet decision on January 6, 2025, to encourage international airlines to use the southern airport. Several carriers have since begun operating scheduled flights under the concession, while others have expressed interest in launching services.
Authorities said the extension aims to sustain current airline operations and attract more international carriers to the airport. The proposal was presented by the Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation. (Newswire)