SRI LANKA AIR FORCE INAUGURATES THE DR NEVILLE FERNANDO MEMORIAL AIR FORCE HOSPITAL IN MALABE
The Sri Lanka Air Force marked a significant milestone in its healthcare services with the re-opening of the Dr Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital in Malabe, held today (09 November 2026).
The occasion was graced by the Honourable Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, who attended as the Chief Guest. Upon his arrival, he was warmly received by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dr Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital, Air Commodore Neeluka Abeysekera,
The event was also attended by the Honourable Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara, Member of Parliament Honourable Asitha Niroshana and Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha. In remembrance of Dr Neville Fernando, his spouse, Mrs Sawarnamali Fernando, and other members of his family were also present on this occasion.
The Honourable Minister of Health and Mass Media subsequently addressed the invitees and hospital staff, highlighting the significance of the new facility and its contribution to the country's healthcare sector. This was followed by a guided tour of the hospital, during which the distinguished guests viewed the facilities and medical services available at the institution.
The management and administration of the Dr Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital have been entrusted to the Sri Lanka Air Force, bringing the institution under the operational management of the Air Force. Through its established medical expertise, professional standards and administrative capabilities, the SLAF is expected to ensure the efficient management and delivery of healthcare services at the hospital.
The occasion was graced by the Honourable Minister of Health and Mass Media, Dr Nalinda Jayatissa, who attended as the Chief Guest. Upon his arrival, he was warmly received by the Commander of the Air Force, Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Dr Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital, Air Commodore Neeluka Abeysekera,
The event was also attended by the Honourable Deputy Minister of Defence, Major General (Retd) Aruna Jayasekara, Member of Parliament Honourable Asitha Niroshana and Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, Air Vice Marshal (Retd) Sampath Thuyacontha. In remembrance of Dr Neville Fernando, his spouse, Mrs Sawarnamali Fernando, and other members of his family were also present on this occasion.
The Honourable Minister of Health and Mass Media subsequently addressed the invitees and hospital staff, highlighting the significance of the new facility and its contribution to the country's healthcare sector. This was followed by a guided tour of the hospital, during which the distinguished guests viewed the facilities and medical services available at the institution.
The management and administration of the Dr Neville Fernando Memorial Air Force Hospital have been entrusted to the Sri Lanka Air Force, bringing the institution under the operational management of the Air Force. Through its established medical expertise, professional standards and administrative capabilities, the SLAF is expected to ensure the efficient management and delivery of healthcare services at the hospital.
Availability of modern medical infrastructure are expected to benefit not only Air Force personnel and their families but also members of the public, contributing towards strengthening the country's healthcare delivery system and providing an additional avenue for accessible and quality medical care. This initiative reflects the continued commitment of the Sri Lanka Air Force towards the welfare and well-being of its personnel while supporting the wider national healthcare system through improved and accessible medical services.
Marshal of the Air Force Roshan Goonethilake, Past Commanders, Chief of Staff Air Vice Marshal Lasitha Sumanaweera and members of the Air Force Board of Management, Senior Officers, Officers and other ranks also participated in the occasion to witness this significant milestone.
