Located in the northernmost part of Sri Lanka, Jaffna International Airport is a vital gateway to the country's northern region. The airport has a rich history, dating back to the British colonial era, and has played a significant role in the country's aviation industry. In this article, we will delve into the history of Jaffna International Airport, its current status, and the role it plays in connecting Sri Lanka's north to the rest of the world.
A Brief History of Jaffna International Airport
Jaffna International Airport was first established in 1914 as a small airfield by the British colonial authorities. During World War II, the airport was expanded and upgraded to accommodate military aircraft. After Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948, the airport continued to serve as a domestic airport, connecting Jaffna to other parts of the country.
In the 1980s, the airport was closed due to the Sri Lankan Civil War, which ravaged the northern region. However, in 2011, the Sri Lankan government launched a rehabilitation project to restore the airport to its former glory. The airport was reopened in 2019, with the first international flight landing on October 17, 2019.
Current Status of Jaffna International Airport
Today, Jaffna International Airport is a modern facility that can accommodate both domestic and international flights. The airport has a single terminal building, which handles all passenger operations. The terminal is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including check-in counters, baggage handling systems, and security screening areas.
The airport has a single runway, which is 2,300 meters long and 45 meters wide. The runway is capable of handling medium-sized aircraft, including the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737.
Airlines and Destinations
Jaffna International Airport is currently served by several airlines, including SriLankan Airlines, IndiGo, and Alliance Air. The airport offers flights to several destinations in India, including Chennai, Trichy, and Bangalore.
In addition to these international flights, the airport also offers domestic flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital city. The airport is expected to attract more airlines and destinations in the future, as it continues to grow and develop.
Role of Jaffna International Airport in Connecting Sri Lanka's North
Jaffna International Airport plays a vital role in connecting Sri Lanka's northern region to the rest of the world. The airport provides a convenient and efficient way for people to travel to and from the north, promoting tourism, trade, and economic development in the region.
The airport is also expected to boost the local economy by creating jobs and stimulating economic growth. The airport's reopening has already attracted several businesses and investments to the region, including hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related ventures.
Future Development Plans
The Sri Lankan government has several development plans in place to further enhance Jaffna International Airport's facilities and services. These plans include the expansion of the terminal building, the construction of a new runway, and the upgrading of the airport's navigation and security systems.
The government also plans to attract more airlines and destinations to the airport, including flights to other parts of Asia and Europe. The airport is expected to become a major hub for tourism and trade in the region, promoting economic growth and development in Sri Lanka's north.
Gallery of Jaffna International Airport
FAQs
What is the airport code for Jaffna International Airport?
+The airport code for Jaffna International Airport is JAF.
What airlines operate at Jaffna International Airport?
+Jaffna International Airport is currently served by SriLankan Airlines, IndiGo, and Alliance Air.
What destinations are available from Jaffna International Airport?
+Jaffna International Airport offers flights to several destinations in India, including Chennai, Trichy, and Bangalore, as well as domestic flights to Colombo.
In conclusion, Jaffna International Airport is a vital gateway to Sri Lanka's northern region, providing a convenient and efficient way for people to travel to and from the area. The airport has a rich history and has played a significant role in the country's aviation industry. With its modern facilities and services, the airport is expected to become a major hub for tourism and trade in the region, promoting economic growth and development in Sri Lanka's north.