The Hingurakgoda runway is undergoing a significant transformation to meet international standards and facilitate operations for widely used A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft.
Following extensive consultations with key stakeholders, the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) was entrusted with the design and construction of this ambitious project.
The development is structured into four distinct phases, with the first phase focusing on constructing the main runway. This phase comprises seven stages, with stages one and two already completed, thanks to an initial allocation of funds. These efforts resulted in the asphalt binder course for 850 meters of the total 2,500-meter runway.
Before advancing to the final asphalt wearing course, the RDA consultant team recommended conducting a test landing on the completed 850-meter section. A significant milestone was achieved on January 13, 2025, when a Y-12 aircraft, piloted by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, successfully conducted the test landing.
The next stage, extending the runway by an additional 850 meters, is set to commence on January 15, 2025.
With approval from the President, the project aims to complete the full 2,500-meter runway, ensuring it meets the operational requirements of larger aircraft and enhances Sri Lanka’s aviation capabilities.
