BIA runway overlay completed

Overlay work on the runway at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) was completed ahead of schedule last week but re-opening for all flights would take place as planned on April 6.

The airport has been closed during the day (8.30 am to 4.30 pm) since January 6, and opens only at night. When the BIA resumes full operations on April 6, the runway will be able to accommodate A380s since the width of the runway has also been increased to 75 metres from an earlier 60 metres.

Airport and Aviation Services Ltd Head of Civil Engineering (Planning and Designs) G. Withanage told the Business Times that they were “nearing completion” adding that “We can do it as per the schedule.” He noted that their target was to complete an operational runway.

Though the runway overlay work was completed other aspects of the project like the taxiway needed to be completed and the air operation area would conclude today (Sunday), Mr. Withanage said.

The work was carried out by the contractor China National Aero – Technology International Engineering Corporation (CATIC-ENG) deploying 310 Chinese expatriates, more than 300 Sri Lankans and more than 230 units of machinery and equipment on site.

Ground lighting on the airfield are also being changed from the existing 30 year old cable system with halogen lights to 2500 LED lights (making it easy for pilots).