The Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation has officially commenced a campaign aimed at attracting both domestic and foreign investors to the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA). Officials have emphasized that this initiative represents a crucial move towards rejuvenating the nation’s aviation industry and fostering economic development in the southern region of Sri Lanka. The Board of Investment of Sri Lanka will collaborate with various stakeholders and prospective investors, acting as a facilitator for this significant investment opportunity.
On behalf of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL), the Ministry has begun the process of soliciting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) that encompass a broad range of commercial possibilities. The Hambantota Airport, a facility with substantial untapped potential, has been poised for significant growth since its opening over ten years ago. It presents unique opportunities for exotic tourism development as well as strategic investments in areas such as Airport Operations, Cargo Services, Logistics, and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) services.
The EOI initiative is divided into two main categories: Airside/Aerodrome Operations, which pertains to civil airport functions within the inner perimeter, and Landside Operations, which includes activities across both the outer and inner perimeters of the airport.
The investment opportunities at MRIA cover a variety of sectors, such as Cargo Services, Logistics, MRO Operations, Aircraft Spare Parts Manufacturing, Industrial Parks for manufacturing, packaging, and warehousing, Renewable Energy projects, and Hospitality Services including Resort Hotels. Authorities are highlighting the airport’s strategic location near Hambantota Port and significant international shipping routes as a distinct competitive advantage, promoting integrated air-sea connectivity.
To encourage participation, flexible investment models are available, including joint ventures, public-private partnerships, and direct investments. This approach is intended to reduce barriers and attract investors with diverse risk profiles and financial commitments. The airport is equipped with modern infrastructure, featuring advanced runways, passenger terminals, and cargo handling facilities.
The EOI process is open to both local and international entities. Interested parties can access the necessary documents at no cost on working days from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Sri Lanka time, GMT +5:30) from April 27, 2026, to June 8, 2026. Applicants must submit a request letter on their official letterhead to the Office of the Head of Commercial & Properties located in Room No. 35, 2nd Floor, Passenger Terminal Building, Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Katunayake, Sri Lanka. Additionally, documents can be downloaded from the AASL website at www.airport.lk.
A proposal briefing and site visit at Mattala is set for May 22, 2026. Interested investors are encouraged to contact the Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at AASL for more information. The authority can be reached at Office +94 112264400 or Mobile +94 763963000 / +94 718436057.
This initiative is part of a larger strategy to draw foreign direct investment and enhance Sri Lanka’s standing in the global aviation arena. The Board of Investment (BOI) has been tasked with promoting this opportunity through its official digital platforms and international networks, reflecting strong inter-agency collaboration behind this initiative.
