• Currently operating a fleet of 23 aircraft 
• Plans to introduce new routes, enhance frequency on some existing routes

Amidst the ongoing global aircraft shortage, SriLankan Airlines claims that its operational performance is stable and discussions with multiple parties are continuing to secure additional aircraft.

SriLankan Airlines Chairman Sarath Ganegoda told The Sunday Morning that the airline was currently operating a fleet of 23 aircraft, comprising 10 wide-body and 13 narrow-body Airbus aircraft.

Given the current fleet size of the airline, he noted that diversifying into various manufacturers was not a feasible option at present. 

Speaking to The Sunday Morning, he acknowledged that the airline had plans to introduce new routes and enhance the frequency on some existing routes. However, aircraft availability remains a limiting factor.

“There are new routes we would like to add, and in some existing routes where we do not operate daily, we are looking to increase our services,” Ganegoda explained.

He also acknowledged that, along with other international carriers, SriLankan Airlines was also meticulously evaluating its expansion strategy into certain markets within current fleet constraints. 

According to Ganegoda, if SriLankan were to deploy several more aircraft, its ability to expand routes and strengthen overall revenue generation would be significantly enhanced. Discussions with potential lessors are ongoing, with efforts underway to expedite the process.

Speaking on leasing arrangements, he clarified that SriLankan Airlines operated solely under dry leasing.

“In a market driven by supply and demand dynamics, prices can increase when there is a shortage. But more than the price, availability and the process are more significant at present,” he noted.

Addressing the airline’s recent financial performance, Ganegoda stated that its operational performance had improved year after year. He acknowledged that the reported loss from the previous fiscal year was primarily due to massive exchange-related factors rather than core operational difficulties. 

“Operationally, we are doing very well, even better than the previous year, and the year currently closing is expected to show further improvement,” he claimed, adding that legacy interest-related obligations continued to pose challenges.

Amid the global supply constraints noted by the International Air Transport Association (IATA), Ganegoda stated that SriLankan Airlines was focusing on revenue growth and strategic expansion within its capabilities.

Deputy Minister of Ports and Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku stated that procuring an aircraft on dry lease was difficult under the current situation due to high market demand.

“Due to the high market demand and our procedural delays, aircraft are no longer available for acquisition,” he said.

When asked how soon Sri Lanka could secure aircraft, Kodithuwakku said that the Government planned on proceeding with a special procurement process by submitting a Cabinet paper in the upcoming weeks to resolve the issue.

He also stated that there would be no impact on tourism or ticket pricing, stressing that these measures were only aimed towards expansion and taking a step forward to strengthen the airline’s operations, and assured that regular operations would continue.