Ratmalana, a domestic aviation hub soon -minister

Dharma SRI ABEYRATNE

The Ratmalana airport will be developed as a domestic aviation hub to cater to the ever increasing inland air transportation demand.

According to Civil Aviation Minister Priyankara Jayaratne, necessary steps have already been taken to convert the Ratmalana airport to a city airport. It has been noted that the number of private flights in Sri Lanka has significantly increased. Considering, this potential demand and opportunity for private flights operations, the Ratmalana airport will be developed as a major city airport.

The Ratmalana airport, which contributed immensely during the humanitarian mission was the first airport in the country. Besides, it performs as the main airport from which inland flights are operated including Air Force cargo and passenger transport aeroplanes. In addition, it is significant that, an Area Control Centre which provides both naval craft and aeroplanes with communication services, has also been established at the Ratmalana airport, a Civil Aviation Ministry official said.

In addition, 11 other inland airports in Polonnaruwa, Hingurakgoda, Koggala, Katukurunda, Weeravila, Trincomalee, Sigiriya, Batticaloa, Ampara, KKS and Vavuniya will also be renovated to boost inland air transport.

"Though these airports had been established many years ago, they are not being properly utilized for the betterment of the country.