Development of airports: Need for strategic focus and integrity

Sri Lanka’s airport infrastructure has been undergoing a series of ad hoc upgrades in recent years. From the underutilised Hambantota International Airport to the recent announcement of the upgrade of the Air Force base at Hingurakgoda, the nation seems to be on a spree of airport enhancements that lack cohesive strategy and tangible economic benefit. These projects raise serious questions about prioritisation, economic impact, and potential corruption.

Last week the Cabinet of Ministers has granted approval for the development of Hingurakgoda Airport as a “full-fledged airport in accordance with international civil aviation standards”. Situated a few kilometres from Polonnaruwa, deep in the jungles of the North Central Province, the Hingurakgoda airstrip was an important base for the Sri Lanka Air Force during the conflict, housing its attack helicopter squadron. Whether there would be a tangible return on the investments made to this military base for civilian purposes is a big question mark.

It is further worrying because it is not the first time this script has been played out. Previously similar ‘upgrades’ have been done to Air Force bases in Batticaloa and Ratmalana. In a much hyped-up event in March 2018 the then Government declared open the Batticaloa airport after the reconstruction of the runway, apron and terminal building at a cost of staggering Rs. 1.4 billion with Treasury funding. Similarly, two years ago the Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR) was declared open amidst a grand tamasha. Despite the pomp and ceremony of Ratmalana’s reopening, its promise of international flights remains largely unfulfilled. These endeavours often culminate in expensive inaugurations that fail to yield substantial traffic or economic returns. Such investments, instead of revitalising local economies, seem more like expensive experiments.

The Hambantota International Airport stands as a testament to the pitfalls of poorly conceived infrastructure projects in aviation. It was envisioned as a gateway to spur economic activity in the southern region but has instead become a financial albatross. Its persistent lack of passengers and flights underscores the folly of building without a grounded business case or demand forecast. The Government continues to shoulder the burden of its maintenance, a reminder of the perils of grandiose projects devoid of strategic foresight.

In stark contrast, the Jaffna International Airport presents a compelling case for development. Located in the northern part of the country, Jaffna’s potential for economic revitalisation through improved air connectivity is clear. It could foster closer ties with southern India, enhance tourism, and stimulate regional economic growth. However, it remains perplexingly neglected in favour of less viable projects. This neglect reflects a broader misalignment in the country’s infrastructure priorities. 

The Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), the primary gateway to Sri Lanka, is another critical piece in this puzzle. Its long-awaited expansion has been marred by delays, cost overruns, and allegations of corruption. As the main international hub, BIA’s enhancement is vital for accommodating increasing passenger traffic and maintaining the country’s competitiveness in the global tourism market. The controversy surrounding its development not only hampers progress but also erodes public trust in the administration of such essential projects.

For Sri Lanka to truly benefit from its investments in airport infrastructure, a strategic and transparent approach is essential. The focus should be on expanding and optimising facilities like BIA and Jaffna Airport, where there is clear economic logic and demand.