Overview
Jaffna International Airport is a newly built airport located in the northern part of Sri Lanka. It was officially opened in October 2019 and replaced the previous Jaffna domestic airport. The airport is situated in the Palaly area, approximately 15km north of Jaffna city.
The airport was constructed with the intention of boosting tourism and economic activity in the region. Before its construction, the only way to reach Jaffna was by road or railway. Now, with the airport operational, tourists and business travelers can fly directly to the region.
The airport has a single runway that is 2300 meters long and can accommodate small and medium-sized aircraft. The terminal building has been designed to handle up to 1 million passengers per year and has all the necessary facilities including check-in counters, immigration, customs, and baggage handling facilities.
Currently, there are several airlines operating flights to and from Jaffna International Airport. These include Sri Lankan Airlines, Alliance Air, and Indigo. Direct flights are available from cities such as Chennai, Bangalore, and Mumbai in India, as well as Colombo in Sri Lanka.
Overall, Jaffna International Airport has played a significant role in boosting the tourism industry and economy in the northern region of Sri Lanka. With improved connectivity and facilities, the airport is set to attract even more visitors in the future.
Terminals at Jaffna International Airport
Jaffna International Airport is a small airport located in the city of Jaffna in northern Sri Lanka. The airport consists of one terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights. The terminal has recently undergone renovations to modernize its facilities.
Passengers arriving at the airport can expect a hassle-free experience as the airport is relatively small, and queues are typically short. The airport staff is friendly and efficient, ensuring that travelers have a pleasant experience.
The terminal building has a variety of amenities for passengers to enjoy, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes. The airport also has free Wi-Fi access, making it easy for passengers to stay connected while waiting for their flight.
In addition to the main terminal building, there is also a VIP lounge available for passengers who require more privacy or additional amenities. The VIP lounge provides a comfortable and quiet space for passengers to wait for their flight.
Despite being a small airport, Jaffna International Airport has a modern baggage handling system to ensure that passengers’ luggage is processed quickly and efficiently. The airport also has a dedicated cargo terminal, making it an important transportation hub in the region.
Overall, the terminals at Jaffna International Airport provide a comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers. With modern facilities and attentive staff, the airport is a great choice for those traveling to and from the northern part of Sri Lanka.
Airlines and Destinations
The Jaffna International Airport currently has two airlines operating – Alliance Air and IndiGo.
Alliance Air operates flights to Chennai, Tiruchirappalli, and Bengaluru while IndiGo operates flights to Chennai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Domestic routes include flights within India while international routes currently connect Jaffna to destinations in South Asia.
It is important to note that flight schedules and routes may change depending on the season, so passengers are advised to confirm information directly with the airlines.
Transportation at Jaffna International Airport
Jaffna International Airport is the primary airport serving the Jaffna district in Sri Lanka. As a relatively small airport, it offers limited transportation options. However, visitors arriving at the airport can still find several options to reach their destination.
One of the most popular transportation options at Jaffna International Airport is the shuttle service. There are various shuttle service providers available at the airport, and they offer reliable and comfortable transportation to different parts of the city. Visitors can book a shuttle service online or at the airport terminal.
Another transportation option available at Jaffna International Airport is car rentals. Several car rental companies have offices at the airport terminal, and visitors can rent a car to explore the city on their own. Some of the popular car rental companies operating at Jaffna International Airport include Hertz, Europcar, and Budget.
For those who prefer a more economical option, there is also a shuttle bus service operating from the airport to different parts of Jaffna. The shuttle bus service is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers, and it operates at regular intervals throughout the day.
Visitors can also choose to take the train from Jaffna International Airport. The airport is located within walking distance from the Kondavil railway station, offering easy connectivity to the rest of the city. However, visitors should keep in mind that the train service may not be as frequent as other transportation options.
In conclusion, while Jaffna International Airport may not offer an extensive range of transportation options, visitors can still find reliable and affordable options to reach their destination. Whether it’s a shuttle service, car rental, shuttle bus, or train lines, visitors can choose the transportation option that best suits their needs and budget.
Parking at Jaffna International Airport
Jaffna International Airport offers both short-term and long-term parking options to cater to the needs of its passengers. The airport has a spacious parking area with plenty of room for vehicles of all sizes.
For short-term parking, the first 30 minutes are free, after which Rs.50 is charged for every additional hour. The maximum charge for a day is Rs.500.
For long-term parking, the charges are Rs.300 per day, and the parking period should be a minimum of three days. It is an excellent option for those taking longer trips and need their cars parked safely.
Moreover, the airport has adequate security measures in place to ensure the safety of vehicles parked on the premises. The security personnel monitor the parking area around the clock, and CCTV cameras have been installed to keep a close eye on the parked vehicles.
Visitors can pay for parking using cash or card. There are automated payment machines available within the parking area that accepts Visa, Mastercard, and Union Pay.
Overall, the parking facilities at Jaffna International Airport provide a convenient and safe option for those travelling through the airport, with a range of pricing structures to suit varying needs.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Jaffna International Airport is easy and convenient for passengers. There are three methods of checking in: online, self-service, and traditional.
Online check-in is available 24 hours before the scheduled flight time. Passengers can access the airline’s website or mobile app and enter their booking information to check in. They can also select their preferred seats and print their boarding pass. This method saves time by avoiding long lines at the airport.
Self-service kiosks are located in the airport’s check-in area. Passengers can use these machines to check in, select their seats, and print their boarding passes. It is a quick and efficient process, similar to online check-in.
Traditional check-in counters are also available at Jaffna International Airport. Passengers can approach the counter and provide their booking information to the airline staff. They will receive their boarding pass and can check their luggage if needed.
Regardless of the method chosen, passengers are required to show a valid identification document and any necessary travel documents such as visas. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time to allow enough time for the check-in process, security checks, and boarding.
Security Measures at Jaffna International Airport
At Jaffna International Airport, security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. This includes baggage screening, body scanners, metal detectors, and random checks by security personnel.
To have a smooth security check experience, it is recommended to arrive at the airport with ample time, pack your bags smartly, and remove any prohibited items such as liquids and sharp objects before arriving at the airport.
Additionally, wearing easily removable shoes, avoiding bulky clothing and accessories, and being prepared to remove electronics from their cases can also help expedite the security process. By following these tips, travelers can ensure a seamless security check and a stress-free journey.
Customs and Immigration at Jaffna International Airport
For arriving passengers, you will need to fill out an arrival card and proceed to immigration. You will need to present your passport, visa (if required), and any other necessary documents for inspection.
After clearing immigration, you will proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage. Your checked bags will have gone through customs before being loaded onto the baggage carousel.
For departing passengers, you will need to check in for your flight and go through security screening. After clearing security, you will proceed to immigration and present your passport and travel documents.
Once you have cleared immigration, you will proceed through customs where your bags will be inspected. You will then be able to proceed to your departure gate and board your flight.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi
– Duty-free shopping
– Restaurants and cafes
– ATMs and currency exchange
– Prayer room
– VIP lounge
– Conference rooms
– Baby care facilities
– Disabled access
Jaffna International Airport offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all travelers. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal or take advantage of the duty-free shopping available. There are several dining options, from quick bites at the cafes to sit-down meals at the restaurants. Need cash? ATMs and currency exchange services are available. For those who need a quiet place to pray, there is a dedicated prayer room. Passengers looking for additional services can utilize the VIP lounge or conference rooms. The airport also offers baby care facilities and is wheelchair accessible for disabled passengers.
Accessibility Services
Jaffna International Airport offers facilities and services to cater to the needs of passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport has wheelchair assistance available for those who require it, and staff members are on hand to provide assistance with boarding and disembarking.
In addition, the airport has special seating arrangements in the terminal for passengers with disabilities.
Passengers can also request for assistance during check-in, security clearance, and baggage handling.
Jaffna International Airport strives to provide a comfortable and accessible experience for all passengers.
Connecting Flights at Jaffna International Airport
Connecting flights refer to the process of boarding a second flight to reach your final destination, after landing in an intermediate airport.
At Jaffna International Airport, connecting flights are made easy with clear signs and assistance from airport staff. Passengers are advised to allow sufficient time for immigration, baggage claim, and security checks before boarding their connecting flight.
It is recommended to book connecting flights with the same airline or partner airlines to ensure smooth transit and protection against missed flights. It is important to check the departure gate and boarding time of the connecting flight upon arrival and allow ample time to reach the assigned gate.
In case of a delay or cancelled flight, passengers should approach the airline or airport staff for assistance and rebooking options. Overall, proper planning and communication can help make connecting flights a hassle-free experience at Jaffna International Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After landing at Jaffna International Airport, passengers can proceed to the baggage claim area located in the arrivals hall.
Here, they can collect their checked-in luggage by identifying them with the baggage tags given during check-in.
In case of missing or damaged baggage, passengers can report the issue immediately to the airline staff at the baggage claim counter.
The staff will provide a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) form that needs to be filled out, including contact information and details about the missing or damaged baggage.
Passengers can track the progress of the search for their missing baggage with the PIR number provided.
If the baggage is not found within 21 days, passengers are entitled to file a claim for compensation.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Jaffna International Airport is equipped with a fully functioning medical center that operates around the clock. In case of any medical emergency, trained medical personnel are available to provide immediate assistance.
Additionally, the airport has several defibrillators and first aid kits located at various points throughout the terminal. The airport staff is also trained in basic first aid procedures.
In the event of a major emergency, the airport has an emergency response team ready to activate their response plan. The airport’s response plan includes coordination with local hospitals and emergency services to ensure that any medical emergencies are handled efficiently.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within and near Jaffna International Airport. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, amenities, and services to their guests.
Below is a list of five popular hotels near the airport with their distance from Jaffna International Airport:
1. Jetwing Jaffna – 4.3 miles
2. The Thinnai – 3.8 miles
3. Green Grass Hotel – 3.7 miles
4. Tilko Jaffna City Hotel – 4.5 miles
5. Blue Haven Hotel – 6.4 miles
All these hotels offer free Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and complimentary breakfast. Guests can also enjoy additional facilities like swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants.
Useful Tips
Here are some insider tips for navigating and enjoying Jaffna International Airport.
Firstly, it’s important to note that the airport is relatively small, so you won’t have to worry about long lines or crowded spaces.
However, make sure to arrive at least two hours before your flight to avoid any last-minute rush.
If you’re travelling from Jaffna to Colombo, keep in mind that there are only a few flights per day, so plan accordingly.
Also, there are limited dining options at the airport, so it’s best to grab a meal before you arrive.
Finally, be prepared for security checks and ensure that you have all necessary documents, such as your passport and boarding pass, ready and accessible.
Contact Information
– Airport Information Desk: +94 21 222 0888
– Flight Information Display System (FIDS): +94 21 222 0888
– Lost and Found: +94 21 222 0888
– Customs: +94 21 222 0537
– Immigration: +94 21 222 0525
For any assistance or information, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are available 24/7 and will be happy to assist you in any way possible.
Airports Near Jaffna International Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of Jaffna International Airport:
- Batticaloa Airport – located approximately 180km away, this airport can be reached by taxi or private car.
- Trincomalee Airport – located approximately 220km away, this airport can be reached by taxi or private car.
- Colombo International Airport – located approximately 370km away, this airport can be reached by taxi, private car, or train.
It’s important to note that transportation options may vary depending on your location and time of travel. It’s always recommended to research and plan ahead before making any travel arrangements.