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Did You really know there is a second Airport option in Colombo city? One that offers more FBO-like experience. Let’s find it out.
VCCC/RML Airport Sri Lanka is located about 17 Km south to Colombo capital, VCCC/RML Airport is actually the first international Airport of the country. The history of RML Airport spanning to the colonial era where the Royal Air force Aircrafts landed during their operation WW2 operations also.
The Airport later had civilian operation through that till the Bandaranaike Int’l airport comes up with operation and taking over as the preferred operation point.
What is good and lapses at this Airport. How is it important as more GA friendly Airport? Let’s have a glance.
Airport facility
The RML Airport is consist of 1400m long runway and 09 Parking bays and stated under ICAO rank 4 Airport.
Airport terminal is not large as in a commercial Airport and yet consist of all necessary services for an international travel. The compact service facility is a more like as in a FBO facility where You can get clear through CIQ formalities just in few minutes.
Should You need to be comfort during the stay there is a specious lounge with snacks and beverages.
Basic handling services are readily available at this Airport and also have additional services such as Hangar facilities can be obtained with prior permission.
Airport limitation/restrictions
While the RML Airport can be recongnised as more GA friendly and FBO-like operation , there also Lying some Airport limitation/restrictions attached to it which an operator should be aware of prior planning an operation.
RML/VCCC is operated only in day time (HJ) which is 0030-1230 UTC (dawn to dusk). There is no apron lighting and ILS. Hence any operation should be planned accordingly.
Also the Airport is operating only as VFR operation within 10nm radious, hence landing and take-off should be carried out with VFR. The landing and take-off paths also very restricted due to restricted flying areas which falls along the pathways hence the landing and take-off paths are need to be verified before operation.
The Airport also lack some handling services such as no appointed caterer for the airfield or not having any engineering services available.
Any operator must carefully obtain all required information prior to the operation in VCCC/RML and be up to date to carryout smooth and safe operation
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is VCCC/RML Airport Sri Lanka?
VCCC/RML Airport Sri Lanka, also known as Ratmalana Airport, is an international airport located about 17 km south of Colombo and provides facilities suitable for general and business aviation.
2. Is VCCC/RML Airport suitable for business aviation?
Yes. The airport offers a more FBO-like experience for business aviation, including a compact terminal, CIQ facilities, a lounge and basic aircraft handling services.
3. Does VCCC/RML Airport offer CIQ facilities?
Yes. Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) formalities are available for international travel, with the compact terminal allowing passengers to complete the required procedures conveniently.
4. What is the runway length at VCCC/RML Airport?
VCCC/RML Airport has a 1,400-metre runway and nine parking bays. Operators should confirm aircraft suitability and current operational requirements before planning a flight.
5. What are the operating hours of VCCC/RML Airport?
According to the operational information in this article, RML/VCCC operates during daytime hours (HJ), from 0030 to 1230 UTC. Operators should verify current operating hours before departure.
6. Are there any operational restrictions at VCCC/RML Airport?
Yes. The airport has operational limitations including VFR requirements, no ILS and no apron lighting. Restricted flying areas may also affect arrival and departure paths.
7. Are hangar facilities available at VCCC/RML Airport?
Hangar facilities may be available with prior permission. Operators should arrange and confirm availability before the planned operation.
8. How far is VCCC/RML Airport from Colombo?
VCCC/RML Airport is located approximately 17 km south of Colombo, making it a convenient airport option for passengers travelling to and from the city.
Planning an Operation to VCCC/RML Airport Sri Lanka?
Contact Colombo Jet Executive Services
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Sri Lanka Flight Support & Ground Handling
Written by Colombo Jet Executive Services
Executive aviation ground supervision and operational support in Sri Lanka.