Emirates Airlines and Boeing have held preliminary discussions with the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) on the potential introduction of Boeing 777-9 aircraft operations to Sri Lanka.
Representatives from Boeing and Emirates met Director General of Civil Aviation Capt. Daminda Rambukwella at the CAASL headquarters to discuss the regulatory, airworthiness, airport and operational requirements for introducing the aircraft.
The meeting was attended by Boeing Lead Engineer for Airport Operations Engineering Richard Vaisvila and Emirates Flight Operations Engineer Jins Sebastian, along with senior CAASL officials.
According to CAASL, the discussions marked the initial stage of engagement, with the parties examining the requirements that would need to be met should Emirates decide to operate the aircraft to Sri Lanka.
The Boeing 777-9, the largest member of Boeing’s next-generation 777X family, is designed for long-haul international flights and features folding wingtips that allow its large wingspan to be accommodated within existing airport infrastructure.
CAASL expressed its willingness to facilitate the aircraft’s operations in Sri Lanka, subject to the completion of all applicable regulatory, operational and safety requirements.
The potential introduction could strengthen Sri Lanka’s international air connectivity and its ability to accommodate next-generation wide-body aircraft.
However, no confirmed launch date or final decision on Emirates operating the Boeing 777-9 to Sri Lanka has been announced. (Newswire)