Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (HRI)

Mattala, LK 🇱🇰 Large International Airport Scheduled Service

ICAO

VCRI

IATA

HRI

Elevation

157 ft

Region

LK-3

Local Time

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Airport Information

GPS Code: VCRI

Local Code: VCRI

Location: 6.284467° N, 81.124128° E

Continent: AS

Type: Large International Airport

Keywords: Hambantota International Airport

Arrivals
View incoming flights
Departures
View outgoing flights

External Links

Official Website Wikipedia ✓ Live Flights
Public Transportation
National Transport Commission (Bus Routes) Sri Lanka Railways
Links verified by AI • Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Nearby Points of Interest

What Travelers Say

AI-Generated Summary Based on web research

Traveler sentiment regarding Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (VCRI/HRI) is generally positive concerning its facilities and operational efficiency, despite its well-known challenge of extremely low passenger traffic. Travelers appreciate the modern infrastructure and cleanliness of the airport, contributing to a calm and smooth experience.

What Travelers Love
  • Modern Infrastructure & Cleanliness: The airport boasts modern facilities and state-of-the-art infrastructure, consistently rated highly for its cleanliness.
  • Efficient Security & Immigration: Passengers frequently report positive experiences with the efficiency of security and immigration processes.
  • Friendly and Helpful Staff: Reviews often highlight the staff as friendly and accommodating.
  • Spacious and Quiet Environment: Due to low passenger volumes, the terminal often feels spacious and quiet, offering a relaxed travel experience.
  • Availability of Lounges and Amenities: The airport provides exclusive lounges for premium passengers, along with dining options and duty-free shops, despite limited activity.
Common Complaints
  • Low Passenger Traffic: The most significant and recurring complaint is the airport's low passenger volume, often referred to as the "World's Emptiest International Airport," leading to limited flight options and a quiet atmosphere that some find eerily empty.
  • Limited Retail and Dining Vibrancy: While amenities exist, the low traffic means that retail and dining areas might lack the vibrancy and extensive options found at busier airports.
  • Baggage Handling and Queues: Some reviews indicate less positive experiences with baggage handling and occasional queues.
  • Terminal Access: Compared to other airports, terminal access is sometimes noted as unpopular, potentially hinting at less convenient public transport options.

Overall, Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport offers a comfortable and efficient experience for the travelers it serves, primarily due to its modern facilities and lack of crowds. However, its underutilization remains a prominent point of discussion and can impact the availability and vibrancy of services for passengers.

Generated False weeks ago

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This summary is automatically generated by AI based on web research of traveler reviews and experiences. AI-generated content may not always be 100% accurate.

Current Weather Conditions

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Airport Routes

Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
Popular Flight Routes
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Top Airlines

Operating at Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport
Airlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network
Airline Routes Flights Destinations Last Activity
Belavia
BRU / B2
1 3 1 Nov 18, 2025
Showing top 1 airlines by flight activity. Data includes observed departures and route networks from this airport.
For Pilots

Designation Length Width Surface Status
05/23 11483 ft 197 ft Asphalt Active Lighted

Type Description Frequency
Ground - 121.7 MHz
Tower - 119.85 MHz

Ident Name Type Frequency

Ground Transportation

Last updated: Nov 21, 2025
Taxis

An airport taxi counter is available in the arrivals hall, but services can be limited due to low flight volumes. It is highly recommended to pre-book a taxi or private transfer in advance, especially for late arrivals. Ride-hailing apps like Uber or PickMe have very limited to no availability in this remote area.

Rental Cars

There are no major international car rental desks within the terminal. Car rentals must be pre-arranged with local Sri Lankan companies who will arrange to meet you upon arrival. Both self-drive and chauffeur-driven options are available, but booking in advance is essential.

Public Transportation

Public transportation options are extremely limited and not recommended for travelers. There are no regular, scheduled bus services operating directly from the airport terminal. The nearest train station is a considerable distance away, requiring a separate taxi journey.

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Ampara Airport
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Distances are approximate and calculated as straight-line distances.