Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, proudly announces a significant leap forward in emergency preparedness and airport modernization, thanks to assistance from the International Organization for Migration (IOM) with generous funding support from the Government of Japan through the Border Health Project.
The Border Health Project aims to fortify BIA’s capacity to effectively respond to public health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic was an urgent call-to-action to reduce physical contact points, waiting time and congestion at transport hubs. By reducing passenger processing time at BIA, the project aims to reduce the probability of exposure to contagious diseases whilst improving service to travelers. These efforts are backed by state-of-the art technological interventions that use biometric technologies, policy guidance from International Health Regulations, improving medical waste management, up-skilling airport staff, and overall improvement in hygienic conditions at the airport.
Under this initiative, critical equipment and services have been provided to the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to enhance operational efficiency, public safety, and border health readiness.
Key Donations Initiated include:
- Fully Equipped Ambulances: Two ambulances (one for BIA) fitted with advanced life-saving equipment, handed in November 2024.
- Turnkey Digital Signage System: A centrally controlled network of 50 standing digital displays to deliver real-time flight information and health alerts, operational by December 2024.
- Battery-Operated Airport Trolley Pushers: Introduced for the first time in Sri Lanka to enhance passenger service efficiency, delivered in December 2024.
- Fully Equipped Isolation Room: Scheduled to be operational at BIA by June 2025, strengthening airport infectious disease response capacity.
Future Enhancements in the Pipeline:
- e-Gates (4-Channel ABC Gates) and Automated Face Recognition System (AFRS): Expected to revolutionize passenger processing at BIA by June 2025.
- Advanced Baggage Screening Systems:
- 7 EDS CB C1 scanners already in use – these detect explosives with operator support.
- 4 EDS CB C2 scanners arriving June 2025 – a newer, more advanced version with greater automation and accuracy, being introduced in Sri Lanka for the first time.
- 2 Cargo-type baggage scanners already deployed.
- Minimally Invasive Full Body Scanner: To enhance customs inspection processes at BIA, slated for June 2025.
Noting the significant assistance rendered via this project, Chairman AASL, Air Chief Marshal H.D. Abeywickrema (Rtd.), commented,
“This series of donations marks a milestone in the modernization of airport services in Sri Lanka and highlights the value of international collaboration to enhance public safety, passenger comfort, and operational excellence”
The Border Health Project, implemented by IOM with key Sri Lankan ministries and stakeholders, exemplifies the deep commitment to building a resilient and health-secure future for Sri Lanka’s borders.
