Airport and Aviation Services Ltd propels nation’s aviation to new heights

By: Staff Writer

March 21, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lanka Airport infrastructure improvement initiatives, ranging from advanced communication infrastructure to modern cargo facilities, are integral components of a comprehensive strategy aimed at propelling the nation’s aviation capabilities to new heights.

Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Pvt) Ltd. (AASL) has generated Rs. 25.3 billion of revenue in the first eight months of 2023, compared to Rs. 16 billion in the same period of 2022, of which Rs. 20.2 billion

Total operational expenditure incurred during the period was Rs. 11 billion. Accordingly, AASL has reported operating profits of Rs. 14.2 billion for the first eight months of 2023.

After adjusting for net financial income and exchange gain, AASL recorded a PBT of Rs. 26.6 billion in the first eight months of 2023, compared to the loss before tax of Rs. 2.5 billion in the same period of 2022.

Due to the country’s interim debt policy, the development of BIA Terminal 2, which is expected to have significant economic benefits, has temporarily been put on hold.

The Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd. (AASL) Athula Galketiya remarked that the arrival of foreign tourists has risen owing to President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s economic initiatives and the peaceful environment fostered within the country.

Consequently, Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake has seen a notable increase in air passenger usage, he said.

The AASL Chairman reported that from January 1st to March 19th, 2024, the number of air passengers who utilized BIA services amounted to 850,000.

Mr. Galketiya noted that it is anticipated approximately 10 million passengers will utilize the airport by the end of this year.

He further highlighted that the total number of passengers using the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake in 2022 was 5 million, with a projected increase to 8 million in 2023

Several key projects have come to fruition, solidifying Sri Lanka’s position in the global aviation arena. Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), the country’s primary international gateway, witnessed strategic enhancements, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers.

Construction of the Import Cargo Terminal Building at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake – Stage I is now underway.  This ambitious project is set to fortify the cargo-handling capabilities of the airport, ensuring efficient and secure import operations.

Bonded warehouse for electronic mall at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake is to sset up soon. This forward-looking initiative catering to the growing demands of the electronic commerce sector, fostering a dynamic business environment at the airport.

Design, Supply, and Installation of Self-Supporting Communication Tower for Radar and Communication Engineering Centre at Pidurutalagala will be operative shortly. : A technological advancement aimed at enhancing radar and communication capabilities, ensuring seamless air traffic control.