Govt. rules out concessions at BIA for operators

By Charumini de Silva

The Government on Tuesday ruled out concessions at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), despite airlines calling for the same to boost post-COVID traffic and tourism.

Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said concessions will only be granted for those who operate to Mattala and Ratmalana airports as per the Cabinet paper submitted on 26 February 2020.

Concessions enjoyed include a $ 60 embarkation fee waived off at the Mattala Airport for two years, and 50% reduction for one year at Ratmalana. Landing and parking charges for international airlines at both these airports have also been suspended for a year in a bid to attract more airlines to use them, while aviation fuel is being issued at concessionary rates.

“It is difficult to give concessions for the flights coming to BIA, as we need revenue too,” the Minister told the Daily FT.

The Aviation industry recently said, considering the challenges faced on account of the COVID-19 pandemic forcing serious losses to airlines, it was important the Government extends waivers to operators at the BIA as well. They also called for concessions similar to those introduced soon after the 2019 Easter Sunday terror attack, claiming COVID was an even bigger disaster for the airline industry.