The Jaffna International Airport (JIA) achieved a historic milestone yesterday by welcoming its first international charter flight from Chennai, India. This landmark event marks a significant step in enhancing regional air connectivity and paves the way for increased international travel to North-East.
Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL) announced that with this arrival, JIA is now officially open to international charter flights. The move is expected to foster economic growth, boost regional tourism, and strengthen ties between the North-East and India.
The development comes as part of broader efforts to upgrade the airport’s infrastructure and expand its operations. The Sri Lankan Airport Aviation Authority has been working to extend the runway and modernize facilities at the Palaly airport, which has already been receiving direct flights from Air India. Indigo Airlines, a budget carrier from India, has also unveiled plans to launch new Jaffna flights. The airline plans to strengthen its presence in Sri Lanka with non-stop flights from Bengaluru (BLR) to Jaffna.
Despite opposition from the Sri Lankan government, India has remained committed to improving connectivity with the North-East, recognizing the region’s strategic and cultural significance. The Tamil homeland, with its deep historical ties to India, stands to benefit significantly from these developments.