The Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Ports, Anura Karunathilaka has reviewed the ongoing and proposed development plans for the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) during a high-level discussion with the management of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited.

Following the meeting, Minister Karunathilaka conducted an on-site inspection of the airport premises, focusing on key infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving operational efficiency and passenger services.

Discussions centered on planned development projects designed to accommodate the anticipated increase in passenger traffic. These include expanding terminal facilities, enhancing passenger handling capacity, and improving service efficiency and quality standards, the Ministry of Ports and Civil Aviation Ports noted.

A key focus of the development agenda is the expansion of Terminal 1, which is expected to upgrade arrival and departure areas, check-in and boarding systems, as well as immigration and transit facilities. The project is designed to significantly increase overall passenger handling capacity, adding approximately 500,000 passengers per year.

Plans for a new Terminal 2 were also highlighted, which will introduce a modern passenger terminal aimed at further strengthening long-term capacity and aligning airport services with international standards. Construction of the project is scheduled to commence in November 2026 and is expected to be completed within 30 months.

Authorities said the developments are intended to position the Bandaranaike International Airport as a more efficient, modern, and passenger-friendly international aviation hub capable of meeting growing travel demand.