SriLankan Airlines states safety is paramount for the airline and even though its flights run at full capacity, it will not compromise safety or hinder its operations.
According to the Head of Engineering at SriLankan Airlines, Arjuna Kapugeekiyana, safety inspections of the fleet are conducted according to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency.
“We don’t take any shortcuts. The EU Agency conducts inspections and audit checks. We try to maintain it to the best of our ability. When it comes to flights with technical issues, I will not sign the approval for flight operations even if it’s a minor issue,” he told NewsWire.
When inquired about various issues reported recently related to the airline, he said SriLankan Airlines is being operated with a total of 23 aircraft at present although it needed more.
Head of Engineering at the airline, Arjuna Kapugeekiyana said, “When flying worldwide there are several reasons for the aircraft schedule to get disrupted, including delays in clearance or curfews at airports. These unforeseen incidents also make it difficult to immediately rectify the disrupted schedule.”
“The other reason is the SriLankan Airlines fleet of 27 aircraft being reduced to 24 aircraft following the Coronavirus pandemic. As one aircraft is yet to be delivered, the airline is being operated with a total of 23 aircraft at present, among which, three aircraft were grounded due to a lack of engines. Therefore, SriLankan Airlines currently operates with 18 aircraft under the schedule for 20 aircraft. ”
Giving details on the grounded aircraft, he said they were grounded due to a lack of engines which is due to overseas manufacturers having found defects during inspections. “The engine defects are identified as global issues and are not related to the airline’s maintenance.”
SriLankan Airlines operations are being spearheaded by its very capable and talented workforce, which has seen a great demand from the Middle East.
“The turnover of the workforce is very high with many talented employees leaving overseas. We can’t match the salaries offered by Middle Eastern countries. But, we are managing with the remaining workforce consisting of talented engineers and technicians, and are offering the best remuneration package we can offer,” Head of Engineering at the airline, Arjuna Kapugeekiyana said.
SriLankan Airlines expects to get all grounded aircraft into operation by the winter season. (NewsWire)
