Originally established as the
Royal Naval Air Station HMS Ukussa, it was reactivated in 1984 by the
Sri Lanka Air Force. It has been the venue for many motor races conducted in association with the Air Force Sports Board and with Sports Ministry approval. Established in 1944 by the
Fleet Air Arm of the
Royal Navy at its peak it was the largest Royal Naval Air Station, staffed by 300 Officers, 3000 sailors and 100 women from the
Women's Royal Naval Service. It serviced more than 100 aircraft at any given time whilst maintaining an aircraft repair yard. Local civil flying schools provide flight training facilities from the aerodrome. ==Airlines and destinations==