Residents in Malabe and nearby areas now have another hospital facility. The Dr. Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital reopened on November 9 under a new management arrangement.
The Sri Lanka Air Force now handles the hospital’s daily operations. This follows a Cabinet decision taken in February 2026. Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa attended the reopening ceremony as Chief Guest.
Sri Lanka Air Force Takes Over Hospital Operations
Under the new arrangement, the Government has separated hospital ownership from daily management. The General Treasury will own the hospital through a state-owned company. Meanwhile, the Sri Lanka Air Force will manage its daily operations.
The hospital will offer both free and paid inpatient and outpatient services. The Government will fund staff salaries and operating costs during 2026–2028.
The Ministry of Health and Mass Media will also provide medicines and medical supplies. These items are expected to cost around Rs. 125 million each year. They will support the hospital’s free healthcare services.
The arrangement aims to make better use of the existing hospital facilities. It will also support medical care for Air Force personnel and the public.
Health Minister Inspects Hospital Facilities
Minister Nalinda Jayatissa unveiled the commemorative plaque to mark the reopening. He later toured the hospital with senior Defence officials. Deputy Minister of Defence Major General Aruna Jayasekara (Retd.) and Defence Secretary Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd.) joined the inspection.
They examined the hospital’s medical facilities and infrastructure. Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Goonetileke, Mrs. Neville Fernando and the Air Force Commander also attended the ceremony.
Senior officials from the Ministries of Defence and Health and Mass Media, Air Force officers and hospital staff were present. The reopening brings the hospital into a new phase under Air Force management. Its role in serving the public will depend on the medical services it provides and their availability.
Last modified: November 10, 2026
