SriLankan cannot operate without leasing aircraft - Minister

COLOMBO (News 1st); Sri Lanka's Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva, a crucial point was underscored, which is that SriLankan Airlines cannot operate without leasing aircraft.

On Monday, the cabinet granted approval for the execution of a contract to lease four narrow-body aircraft to SriLankan Airlines.

The lease agreement entails a monthly rental fee exceeding one million US dollars.

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva disclosed that the initial fleet count of 23 aircraft has been reduced to approximately 14 due to ongoing issues with aircraft defects and subsequent challenges in engine repair.

Emphasizing the necessity of maintaining uninterrupted airline services during the restructuring phase, Minister de Silva underscored the critical importance of acquiring additional aircraft to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the airline.

Adding to the discourse, Ashok Pathirage, Chairman of SriLankan Airlines, provided insights into recent procurement activities within the airline.

Pathirage stated that an aircraft, identified as a model 330, has been acquired for a sum of three hundred and sixty thousand dollars. Notably, these aircraft are pre-owned.

Pathirage highlighted that while the initial plan was to secure 10 units, the current inventory stands at two-fourths of this target, with the acquisition totaling three hundred and sixty thousand dollars.