Following the grand opening of the Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) on 18th March 2013, the No 08 Light Transport Squadron performed the first ever SLAF aircraft landing at this airport, which was carried out by 4R-HTO, MA 60 aircraft, piloted by Wg Cdr DKM Krishanta and Sqn Ldr WV Premasinghe.

Further, it was recorded that the same aircraft and the crew carried out the first ever night take off from this airport, with His Excellency the President Mahinda Rajapaksa, the First Lady and the Commander of the Air Force Air Marshal HD Abeywickrama on board. This aircraft landed at the Ratmalana Airport with HE the President and other dignitaries.

These historical moments would prove significant for the SLAF Helitours in its quest to promote domestic aviation in the country.