Transformational Upgrade for Hingurakgoda Airport

News Today: Hingurakgoda Airport Set for International Flight Operations

The Ports and Shipping Ministry has begun constructing the Hingurakgoda domestic airport for international flight operations. The airport, formerly known as RAF Minneriya, was built during World War II for the British Royal Air Force. The government aims to strengthen Sri Lanka’s economy by upgrading this central airport.

The 2024 budget allocated Rs. 2 billion for initial construction and development. In Phase I, the current 2,287-meter runway will extend to 2,500 meters. Construction, expected to finish in six months, will accommodate larger aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.

The total cost is estimated at Rs. 17 billion. The Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) will carry out the construction, supervised by Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Limited. Runway expansion will occur within the SLAF Base Hingurakgoda perimeter, avoiding land acquisition.

This project highlights SLAF’s civil engineering skills and commitment to enhancing Sri Lanka’s aviation sector. A skilled workforce from SLAF’s Air Field Construction Wing at the SLAF Base Ratmalana will execute the project, coordinated by Air Vice Marshal Engineer Sumedha Silva. This initiative demonstrates SLAF’s technical prowess and marks a significant step in developing Sri Lanka’s aviation infrastructure to international standards.