Transport, Highways, Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Bimal Ratnayake said several foreign airlines have defaulted on payment of dues owed to the CAASL in the past year. He made this remark during his first official visit to the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) on Saturday (25).
He also stressed the need to establish an economy that would enable parents to afford air travel for their children to destinations like the Maldives or India by the age of 15. Speaking further after his inspection tour, the Minister noted that the CAASL is actively monitoring the standards of aircraft, airports and pilots operating in Sri Lanka. Minister Ratnayake also pointed out that three aircraft belonging to SriLankan Airlines have been grounded for three years due to the lack of necessary engines. These aircraft have incurred monthly lease payments of US$ 900,000, which were tied to the previous Government’s decision to dismantle the airline.
However, he acknowledged that under the current administration, the newly appointed SriLankan Airlines Chairman has taken steps to address the issue. One aircraft has already been equipped with a new engine and is operational, while the remaining two are expected to be ready for service by April, following the installation of new engines. Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Sunil Jayaratne was present.
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