Domestic flights from BIA to Palali soon: Minister

International flights to be operational from Palali once the runway is expanded

 First phase of the expansion of the Palali Airport will be completed by July this year

Domestic flights from Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) and Palali Airport will begin once the expansion of the latter is completed, Minister of Ports and Aviation Anura Karunathilaka said yesterday.    “Those who reside in the North are compelled to travel by road when they arrive at BIA from abroad currently. However, it will be a thing of the past once the expansion of Palali Airport is completed. There will be a domestic airline service connecting Palali Airport and BIA,” the Minister told media.   

He said Palali Airport will be able to handle large aircraft once the expansion is fully completed.  “International flights will be operational from Palali once the runway is expanded,” he added.  He said first phase of the expansion of the Palali Airport will be completed by July this year.