• Stage 1 construction already underway at Jaffna International Airport
• Full terminal project expected to cost about Rs. 700 m 
• Govt. weighing plans to expand runway
• Completion of new terminal likely within 2 years

The Government plans to award the tender for Stage 2 of the new terminal project at the Jaffna International Airport by the end of January 2026.

Speaking to The Sunday Morning Business, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku revealed that construction of a new terminal building at the airport had commenced, adding that the project would be carried out in two stages.

“We have commenced construction of a terminal building at the Jaffna International Airport. This will be done in two stages. We have already awarded the tender for Stage 1 and they have commenced the related work. We should be able to award the tender for Stage 2 by the end of January 2026,” he said.  

Kodithuwakku also revealed that the Government was actively considering an expansion of the runway at the airport.

He further stated that the total expected investment for both stages of the terminal project would be approximately Rs. 700 million.

While he was unable to provide an exact timeline for the completion of both stages, the Deputy Minister expressed optimism that the new terminal could be completed within two years.

The Jaffna International Airport, formerly known as the Palaly Airport, was established by the British Armed Forces on 359 acres of land in Palaly, with its first flight to India taking place on 10 December 1947.