Sri Lanka’s proposal to position Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) as an alternative hub for major Gulf carriers is “not a bad idea,” according to aviation analyst Ben Schlappig.
Writing on One Mile at a Time, Schlappig said the concept could offer a creative solution for airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, which are facing operational uncertainty amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
“A large, nearly abandoned airport with good geography seems like a decent choice,” he noted, pointing to Sri Lanka’s location along key east-west aviation corridors.
His comments come after earlier reports that Sri Lanka had initiated discussions to offer Mattala as a temporary operational hub for airlines such as Emirates and Qatar Airways, amid growing disruptions in the Middle East.
Schlappig said Mattala’s underutilisation, which has led to it being labelled a “ghost airport,” could turn into an advantage if airlines are forced to explore alternative transit points.
However, he cautioned that significant logistical and operational challenges remain, including the need to rapidly scale up ground handling, secure aviation fuel, and build supporting infrastructure such as crew accommodation and catering.
Sri Lanka is understood to be exploring the proposal as a potential economic boost, particularly as tourism has been affected by flight disruptions linked to the Middle East situation.
