The launch of a dedicated wildlife unit at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport is expected to deliver significant economic benefits by improving aviation safety, strengthening eco-tourism and enhancing Sri Lanka’s investment appeal, Wildlife Conservation Department Director General Ranjan Marasinghe said.
Speaking at the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Department of Wildlife Conservation and Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Limited, Marasinghe said the initiative links conservation directly with national development and revenue generation.
“This is more than an administrative step—it is a forward-looking initiative that aligns conservation, aviation safety and national development in a single strategic effort,” he said.
He noted that wildlife management at airports is globally recognised as essential for reducing bird strikes and wildlife-related disruptions, which can lead to costly repairs, delays and operational losses.
By proactively managing such risks, the Mattala Wildlife Unit is expected to lower potential costs for airlines and airport operators while improving efficiency and confidence among carriers considering future operations.
Marasinghe said the airport’s proximity to premier tourism destinations such as Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park, together with marine tourism opportunities including Blue Whale watching, gives Mattala a strong commercial advantage.
“This convergence of aviation and wildlife tourism creates an extraordinary opportunity,” he said, adding that the airport has the potential to become a major gateway for high-value eco-tourism.
Industry observers note that wildlife tourists generally spend more on guided safaris, hotels, transport and local experiences, generating stronger foreign exchange earnings and employment opportunities for surrounding communities.
Marasinghe said integrating environmental standards into airport operations would also improve Sri Lanka’s global image at a time when investors and international travellers increasingly value sustainability.
“By integrating environmental considerations into airport operations, we position Sri Lanka more favourably on the global stage, demonstrating that we are a nation committed to sustainability, responsibility and innovation,” he said.
He expressed hope that the Mattala model would be replicated at other international airports, creating long-term savings, stronger environmental governance and wider economic returns.
The Director General said the Department of Wildlife Conservation remains committed to supporting the national economy through new and meaningful avenues while protecting Sri Lanka’s natural assets.
“Conservation must also contribute to development,” he said, stressing that protecting biodiversity and generating growth can go hand in hand.
By Ifham Nizam