Night closure of airport till August 10

By Bandula Sirimanna

The Bandaranaike International Airport will continue with its night closure until August 10 when the authorities will consider recommendations from security officials and other connected state agencies on whether it should remain or be lifted, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said.

The night closure was enforced from May 9 after late night bombing raids by small Tiger aircraft in Colombo and the airforce base adjoining the airport.

CAA Director General Parakrama Dissanayake told the Sunday Times FT that the Defense Ministry, airport and civil aviation officials will review the airport functions and security situation in the country for the 3-month period from May 10 to August 10 before deciding on the next course of action.

Defence sources said an advanced 3D radar system is yet to be installed as no agreement has been reached in the purchase of equipment from China or any other country. However the security systems at the airport have been upgraded and fully strengthened, the sources said.

The night closure of the airport has marginally reduced flights but affected tourism and also business travel.

The airport closure between 10:30 pm and 4:30 am is for three months initially and any extension would depend on the security situation, the Civil Aviation Chief said.

"The decision to close the airport at night was taken mainly to minimize public inconvenience, which may take place due to disruption of flights. Passenger safety is paramount to us," said Dissanayake.