Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport recorded its highest-ever passenger movement in 2025, according to Airport & Aviation Services Sri Lanka (Private) Limited.
The airport handled a total of 140,614 passengers during the year, marking the largest number of passengers recorded within a single year since the airport commenced operations in 2013. In addition, 703 international flights were successfully handled during the same period.
Passenger handling at Mattala International Airport has shown continuous growth over the past three years, reflecting a steady recovery and increased airline interest.
Earlier, airlines were reluctant to operate flights to Mattala due to wildlife-related safety concerns in the surrounding area. However, with the implementation of positive and effective mitigation measures, aircraft arrivals increased significantly in 2025, contributing to the record passenger numbers.
