The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Timor-Leste have signed a US$135 million loan for the extension of Dili airport in the country.

Dili airport is planned to serve as an international gateway to Timor-Leste, but the current conditions of the airport do not meet the safety requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization. The project aims to improve services by implementing PPP for the operation and maintenance of the airport.

The project is in line with Timor-Leste’s Strategic Development Plan 2011–2030 and is expected to boost trade and tourism in the country.