Direct flights between Jaffna & Chennai resume after three years
Direct flights between Jaffna and Chennai have resumed this morning (December 12) after a lapse of three years due to COVID-19.
The first flight from Chennai since 2019 arrived this morning at the Jaffna International Airport.
Accordingly, India’s Alliance Air will operate 04 weekly flights between Palali and Chennai, according to Minister of Tourism Harin Fernando.
Earlier, Sri Lanka’s Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva told Parliament that flights will be operational between Jaffna and Chennai by December 12.
However, there are still some improvements left to be done to the runway.
The present runway can only accommodate 75-seater aircraft.
The airport in Palali was named the Jaffna international airport as Sri Lanka’s third international airport in October 2019 and had its first flight from Chennai.
The 2019 redevelopment of the airport was funded by both Sri Lanka and India.
Latest Headlines in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka moves to restore Central Highlands after Cyclone Ditwah landslides January 21, 2026
- Sri Lanka launches ICC T20 World Cup 2026 trophy tour in Colombo January 21, 2026
- Motorcycle mechanic arrested for Rs. 50,000 bribe attempt at Bemmulla Police Station January 21, 2026
- IMF Chief reaffirms strong support for Sri Lanka’s economic recovery January 21, 2026
- Over 61kg of ICE seized in Nittambuwa STF raid January 21, 2026
