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Why VCRI / Mattala Can Be an Interesting Option for Large Charter & Ferry Flight Operations
When planning an international flight into Sri Lanka, Bandaranaike International Airport (VCBI/CMB) is naturally the first airport that comes to mind. But there is another international airport that deserves more attention, particularly when the operation involves a large charter aircraft, ferry flight, positioning flight or an operation where runway capability, airport capacity and operational flexibility are important.
That is Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (VCRI/MRIA) and from an operational perspective, that can be an advantageous for certain types of flights.
Runway and Other Airport Facilities
One of the first things that stand out at Mattala is the runway. It has a 3500m long and 60m wide runway, with code F infrastructure and the capability to accommodate very large Aircrafts including A380. The airport also has a large apron with multiple parking positions and 02 passenger boarding bridges.
The VCRI/HRI terminal is built with a target of an annual passenger capacity of an approximately one million passengers. The airport is an H24 airport, with all facilities available around the clock without restrictions.
Mattala’s VCRI Airport substantial infrastructure and relatively low traffic make it an attractive option for charter flight operators seeking greater flexibility, easier coordination, and suitable availability for ad-hoc operations.
For ferry flights in particular, the availability of essential airport services can make VCRI an interesting en-route technical stop, being able to assist even a large aircraft, while the services are readily available.
Limitations and Restrictions
As the airport does not have continuous high-volume scheduled passenger operations, certain specialised requirements may need to be communicated and coordinated well in advance.
In other words, the airport’s capacity is a strength, but proper pre-planning remains important.
Think It Is a Good Option for Your Next Operation to Sri Lanka?
We can assist with:
Permit & Airport Coordination | Ground Handling | Fuelling | Passenger & Crew Handling | Ground Transportation | Charter Support | Ferry Flight Coordination | Schedule Changes | Special Mission Support
If you are planning a large charter, ferry flight, positioning flight, or time-critical operation through Mattala, our operations team can coordinate the local requirements around your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport handle large charter aircraft?
Yes. Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (VCRI/MRIA) has a 3,500m long and 60 m wide runway with Code F infrastructure, allowing it to accommodate large aircraft, including the Airbus A380.
2. Is VCRI Mattala suitable for charter flights?
VCRI Mattala charter flights can be an option for operators requiring substantial runway capability, aircraft parking space, and operational flexibility. Requirements should be coordinated in advance according to the specific operation.
3. Can VCRI be used for ferry and positioning flights?
Yes. VCRI can support ferry and positioning flights and may also be considered for en-route technical stops, subject to the operational requirements of the aircraft and prior coordination.
4. Is Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport open 24 hours?
VCRI operates as an H24 airport, making it suitable for operations that may require flexibility outside conventional daytime schedules.
5. What ground handling services are available for flights at VCRI?
Services can include ground handling, fuelling, passenger and crew handling, ground transportation, airport coordination, ferry flight support, and assistance with schedule changes and special missions.
6. Why might operators consider VCRI instead of Colombo for certain flights?
VCRI offers substantial runway and apron capacity and can provide additional operational flexibility for certain charter, ferry, positioning, and large-aircraft operations.
7. How can Colombo Jet Executive Services assist with VCRI operations?
Colombo Jet Executive Services can coordinate local operational requirements, including permits, airport coordination, ground handling, fuelling, passenger and crew services, transportation, and ferry or charter flight support.
Planning an Operation to VCRI/MRIA Airport Sri Lanka?
For further information about VCRI Mattala charter flights, ferry flight operations, ground handling, fuelling, passenger and crew assistance, permits, or other services at VCRI/MRIA, please contact:
Colombo Jet Executive Services
Your Ground Partner for Executive Handling Sri Lanka Flight Support & Ground Handling
📩 ops@cmbjetservices.com
📞+94 70 750 0994
🌐 www.cmbjetservices.com
Colombo Jet Executive Services
Your Ground Partner for Executive Handling