The Sri Lankan government has launched a Rs. 15 billion project to fully modernize Terminal 1 at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Katunayake, without relying on foreign loans. The initiative aims to address growing passenger congestion and support the country’s expanding tourism sector.
Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku stated that the project will be funded entirely through local government resources while the construction of Terminal 2 continues. Planned upgrades include expanding the departure hall, improving security and immigration processing, redesigning the arrivals area and modernizing baggage handling systems.
Upon completion, Terminal 1’s annual passenger handling capacity is expected to increase from 6 million to 15 million passengers, significantly enhancing Sri Lanka’s position as a regional aviation hub.
