The Cabinet of Ministers has approved the awarding of contracts to six new companies to operate tourist service counters at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake for the next three years.
During the post-Cabinet meeting media briefing, Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Bandula Gunawardena announced that this decision follows a competitive bidding process conducted by Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. The selected companies are: Airport Tourist Drivers Association, Ayubowan Tours and Travels Ltd., Avawia Tours Ltd., Lanka Travel Agent Association, Casons Travels Ltd., and JNW Lanka Tours.
Out of the 12 bids received, the Technical Appraisal Committee and the Standing Procurement Committee evaluated and selected the most responsive proposals for operation. The new counters will be located in the vacant lobby area in front of the arrivals terminal at BIA.
Gunawardena emphasized that these new service counters are set to enhance the experience for incoming travelers and contribute positively to the tourism industry and economy. The proposal submitted by Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva was approved by the Cabinet.