• Civil Aviation Minister cites operational stability, industrial peace-harmony 

Even though SriLankan Airlines recorded a loss in 2024 and further losses were projected for 2025 and this year, a bonus payment was made in 2025 to maintain operational stability and industrial harmony, Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka said, responding to criticism raised by Opposition Parliamentarian Ravi Karunanayake.

Speaking in Parliament yesterday (6), Karunanayake questioned the decision, pointing out that the Airline had been profitable in 2022 and 2023 but had since slipped into losses. He claimed that paying bonuses in such a financial context was questionable, noting that loss-making State institutions are generally not permitted to grant such incentives.

Responding to him, Karunathilaka said that the situation at the SriLankan Airlines is governed by a different legal and operational framework. He explained that the bonus payment was made after considering the need to preserve industrial peace among employees and to avoid any disruption to flight operations. "The payment of the bonus did not conflict with ongoing commitments under the International Monetary Programme."

The SriLankan Airlines operates passenger and cargo services linking Sri Lanka with destinations across Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Australia, and remains a critical part of the country’s tourism, trade, and international connectivity.