The management of the financially burdened Mattala International Airport will soon be entrusted to a joint venture between Russia and India, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva announced. 

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said the transfer of management will take place in the next few weeks.

He further said that despite interest from Chinese firms in Sri Lankan airport projects, contractual obligations with Japan stipulate that contracts should be awarded to Japanese companies.  

Commenting on the restructuring of national carrier, SriLankan Airlines, he said the government’s approach involves restructuring the airline rather than selling it outright. 

The minister revealed that under Sri Lankan law, only 49% of SriLankan Airlines’ shares can be transferred to another entity. 

“However, there has been minimal global interest in this opportunity, with only six individuals expressing interest, none of whom were deemed suitable. Even if we were to extend this opportunity to a Sri Lankan entrepreneur, their capabilities would need to be demonstrated,” he added. 

Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva made the remarks while addressing a press briefing at the Presidential Media Centre today. (Newswire)

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Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva has been appointed as the Acting Chairman of the Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP). 

The appointment was made during the SLFP’s politburo meeting held at the Sri Lanka Foundation Institute in Colombo today. 

The special politburo meeting of the SLFP was held under the patronage of the Senior Vice President of the Party Nimal Siripala de Silva.

It was also reported that former President and former SLFP Leader Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga had also attended the meeting.

A change in the leadership of the SLFP comes after the Colombo District Court last week issued an interim order preventing former President Maithripala Sirisena from functioning as the Chairman of the SLFP.

The court order was issued based on a complaint filed by former President Chandrika Kumaratunga, who served as the Leader of the SLFP from 1994 to 2005. (Newswire)

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SriLankan Airlines should show operational and financial progress in the next six months, Minister of Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Minister Nimal Siripala said progress should be shown as the Government has provided necessary assistance by absorbing the USD 510 million outstanding debt by the national carrier. 

SriLankan Airlines has faced severe criticism in the recent past due to the severe inconvenience caused to passengers as a result of operational issues.

However, based on a proposal by the President, as the Finance Minister, the government has allocated funds to cover US$ 510 million from the total US$ 1.2 billion debt that the airline owed to banks and other institutions, he said. 

The minister said that accordingly, with an attractive financial balance sheet, SriLankan Airlines plans to undergo restructuring in the next six months.

Minister Nimal Siripala further said that unnecessary expenses of the airline must be cut down, while good financial discipline should be established in the company during the next 6 months. 

Stating that administration officials and Trade Union representatives must work together to support this cause, he also warned that there will be instability in the jobs of nearly 6000 employees.

According to Lankadeepa newspaper, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva made the remarks during a special discussion held with the administration and trade union representatives of SriLankan Airlines today (Mar 11). (NewsWire)

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The Government has decided to maintain the services of national carrier, SriLankan Airlines for another 6 months, Sri Lanka’s Minister of Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva announced today.

Addressing the media, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said that Cabinet approval has been granted to allocate funds to maintain the services of SriLankan Airlines for another 6 months.

He further said that the Cabinet has also approved the proposal for the Government to absorb the USD 510 million outstanding debt by SriLankan Airlines.

The Aviation Minister also revealed that the calling of bids for SriLankan Airlines has been extended for 45 days. (NewsWire)

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Losses of the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA) in Mattala have been reduced to Rs 1.5 billion, Minister of Ports, Shipping and Civil Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Addressing the Parliament on Wednesday (Nov 29), the minister said this marks the lowest recorded loss since the airport commenced operations. 

Minister de Silva also revealed that at least seven parties have presented Expressions of Interest (EoIs) for the Mattala Airport. 

The minister said the EoIs have been presented with the aim of transforming the loss-making airport into a profitable venture. 

There have been proposals to establish facilities for assembling and repairing aircraft at the Mattala Airport as well, he added. (NewsWire)

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Sri Lanka’s aviation sector has reported a substantial profit of Rs. 22 billion from January to August this year, Minister of Port, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva said.

Addressing the media on Monday, the Minister highlighted that approximately Rs. 10 billion from this profit has already been contributed to the Treasury, providing a much-needed boost to the country’s finances.

He further said that efforts are underway to restructure Sri Lankan Airlines, the national carrier, with a focus on improving its operations and financial performance. “Importantly, the government is committed to ensuring the job security of the approximately 6000 employees of the airline during this restructuring process. To facilitate this, an international consultant has been appointed. This consultant is expected to bring expertise and best practices to guide the restructuring efforts,” he said.

The Minister highlighted the success of operations at Palali International Airport, emphasizing that the airport has completed 200 flights, adding that this achievement underscores the airport’s increasing significance and efficiency in handling air travel.

Minister Nimal Siripala acknowledged the challenges faced by the aviation sector in the past, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, reduced tourist arrivals, and a dollar crisis that affected the fuel supply for aeroplanes. He mentioned that, at one point, fuel for aeroplanes had to be procured by sending aircraft to Madras to obtain the necessary fuel.

“To address these challenges, the Minister of Petroleum and I intervened and facilitated the import of aviation fuel by the private sector, ensuring a stable supply of fuel for aeroplanes. Additionally, modern technology was employed to develop Bandaranaike International Airport, earning it recognition as a prominent airport in Southeast Asia. Efforts were made to increase the frequency of flights by different airlines operating in Sri Lanka. This likely contributes to improved connectivity and accessibility for travellers.

“These developments in the Sri Lankan aviation sector signify a positive turn in its financial performance, reflecting resilience in overcoming challenges. The government’s interventions, such as facilitating fuel supply and enhancing airport infrastructure, have contributed to this success. Increased profitability in the aviation sector is expected to have a positive impact on the country’s overall economic stability,” he explained.

Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva also highlighted that in accordance with the report, Emirates Airlines currently operates 28 flights per week, China Eastern Air operates 05 flights weekly, Etihad offers 06 flights, Qatar Airways provides an impressive 35 weekly flights, Air Arabia manages 11 flights, Air India operates 17 flights, and Jazeera Air conducts 04 flights per week. Furthermore, several other airlines have expressed their commitment to commence operations in Sri Lanka.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that the operations at Palali International Airport continue to demonstrate remarkable success. Specifically, the flight operations between Madras and Palali, which are scheduled three times a week, have already completed a total of 200 flights, underscoring the airport’s increasing prominence and efficiency.”

The Minister pointed out that Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake once a scarcely frequented facility, has now evolved into a bustling aviation hub. Notably, in the month of August, it catered to the needs of over 650,000 passengers. This surge in passenger traffic has contributed significantly to its financial prosperity. In the first eight months of this year alone, the airport has managed to generate a substantial profit of Rs. 22 billion through its aviation services. A commendable portion of this profit, amounting to Rs. 10 billion, has been allocated to the national treasury.

In parallel, a strategic initiative is currently underway to attract potential investors to the Mattala Airport. Furthermore, measures have been put in place to actively mitigate the airport’s operational losses, thereby ensuring its long-term sustainability and financial health.

The Cabinet has recently granted approval for a comprehensive restructuring plan for SriLankan Airlines. Following the submission of this proposal to the Treasury, constructive discussions have taken place in collaboration with the World Bank. In an effort to ensure transparency in the restructuring process, it was recommended to enlist the assistance of an international consultant. Consequently, a qualified consultant has been appointed, and crucial steps are actively being taken to expedite the restructuring of SriLankan Airlines. If progress aligns with the planned timeline, the anticipated benefits should be realized by February of the forthcoming year.

The minister said that it is essential to note that the airline presently does not own any aircraft; instead, all available aircraft are leased. Acquiring new aircraft is not an immediate process and generally involves a waiting period of approximately one year post-order. Due to the absence of A330 aircraft in the current fleet, the airline faces limitations in offering services to destinations such as England, France, and Australia. The existing fleet primarily comprises A320 aircraft, which are unsuitable for long-haul or remote operations. Thus, the restructuring of the airline is imperative to address these challenges effectively.

Recent operational setbacks have resulted in substantial losses amounting to approximately $6 billion. While unions have attributed these delays to technical faults in the aircraft, it’s important to emphasize that pilots must possess certification from a qualified aeronautical engineer before they can undertake flight operations. Moreover, a noteworthy contrast exists in the monthly flight hours flown by our pilots compared to those from other airlines. The majority of our pilots have averaged only 63 flight hours per month, whereas their counterparts in other airlines often accumulate a hundred flight hours. In light of this, a plea is made to our aviation professionals to demonstrate unwavering commitment to institutional success, fostering a culture of responsibility and accountability.

It’s worth mentioning that pilots in our employment receive a monthly salary of four million rupees (40 lakhs). While there have been demands for higher salaries, citing comparisons with the remuneration packages offered by global aviation giants, it is essential to recognize that substantial salary increments may not be feasible in the current circumstances.

Furthermore, Tata’s acquisition of Air India, which includes orders for 250 Boeing 777 aircraft, presents opportunities for collaboration. These collaborations, possibly with regional airlines, offer the potential to secure the future prospects and rights of the 6000th employee of the Sri Lankan company, thereby fortifying the industry’s position,” he added. (NewsWire)

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State Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation Premalal Jayasekara has accused the Minister of Ports Nimal Siripala de Silva of obstructing him from carrying out his duties. 

Speaking to the media yesterday (Aug. 22), State Minister Jayasekara said it was essential for the minister to obtain the assistance of the state minister to carry out affairs of the ministry.

“We brought in several investors and as we were trying to commence operations we had to face several obstructions. This is so as ministry officials only work to the orders of the minister and disregard the state minister,” he said.

State Minister Jayasekara revealed that a group of elderly employees at the ministry is operating in such a manner. 

The State Minister further alleged that the Ministry has leased 13 acres within the Colombo Port to China’s CM Port to construct South Asia’s biggest logistic centre, without calling for tenders, procurement or government evaluation of the land.

Claiming that the land given to CM Port, which runs the Colombo International Container Terminal (CICT), is undervalued, the State Minster alleged that the transaction was facilitated by a Chinese business figure, who secured the land at a seemingly low cost to construct the mega logistic centre. 

Revealing that several interested investors have turned their backs on Sri Lanka, the state minister said this was due to facing various intimidations while attempting to set up their business.

Accusing the ministry officials of attempting to obtain a commission from investors, State Minister Jayasekara questioned why the ministry’s higher officials were obstructing his duties as the state minister.

State Minister Jayasekara called on President Ranil Wickremesinghe to intervene and resolve the issues, adding that he would rather resign than waste state money by remaining in his ministerial position. (NewsWire)

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A decision has been taken to relocate beggars from Galle Face Green in Colombo to the Social Services Rehabilitation Centre in Ridiyagama, Hambantota, it was reported. 

According to NewsFirst, the decision has been taken by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation following complaints over public harassment caused by beggars at the Galle Face Green.

Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva revealed about 150 beggars at the Galle Face Green are allegedly inconveniencing the public, including locals and foreign tourists.

Thereby, the Ministry has instructed the Sri Lanka Ports Authority and Sri Lanka Police to oversee this joint initiative, while the Ports Authority and affiliated institutions have also been directed to allocate funds for this project under the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. 

Minister Nimal Siripala further stated that these funds will provide accommodation, food, and other necessary facilities to the beggars who will be transferred to the rehabilitation centre. (NewsWire)

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Minister of Civil Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva has slammed SriLankan Airlines cockpit crew for refusing to operate scheduled flights in the event of a health emergency.

According to Daily Mirror, Minister Nimal Siripala stated that SriLankan Airlines cockpit crew had been requested to operate scheduled flights as a fellow officer had fallen ill.

“20 or more first officers were off-duty when the first officer on duty fell ill. I contacted the officers via telephone and requested their assistance to operate the flights as it had caused distress among passengers. None of the first officers responded positively and refused to operate the flight,” the minister said. 

Minister Nimal Siripala further stated that even though in the past officers had cooperated in the event of an emergency, none of the first officers came forward in this instance.

He further accused the officers of obtaining the necessary training and flying hours from SriLankan Airlines but later utilizing it to join other airlines for lucrative salaries. 

The Civil Aviation Minister made the remarks while responding to the recent delays in flights to South Korea which had affected the departure of Sri Lankan migrants leaving for foreign employment. 

Minister Nimal Siripala further stressed the need to restructure SriLankan Airlines to address such issues. (NewsWire)

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The government is considering establishing an international civil airport in Hingurakgoda, it was reported.

According to Daily Mirror, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation plans to develop the Hingurakgoda Airport, also known as the Minneriya Airport, as an international civil airport.

During a special discussion held at the Ministry yesterday (03), Minister of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Nimal Siripala de Silva made the proposal to develop the Hingurakgoda Airport as an international civil airport.

The Minister pointed out the convenience of facilitating visits to the Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Dambulla areas by transforming the Hingurakgoda airport into an international civil airport.

He further said that this development will help Sri Lanka increase its foreign exchange earnings by attracting more foreign tourists to these historical and cultural sites.

“A field study will be conducted pertaining to improving and developing the airport for the landing and takeoff of A330 aircraft. Extending the current 2,287 m runway up to 2,800 m, construction of an access way to the airport runway, setting up an air navigation system, and construction of an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower and a passenger terminal at the airport were decided as essential measures,” he added.

Minister Nimal Sirpala de Silva further revealed that the administration and operation of the said airport are currently under the Sri Lanka Air Force. (NewsWire)

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