Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Bimal Rathnayake, has confirmed that SriLankan Airlines will remain a state-owned company, with efforts underway to revitalize its operations.
Speaking to the media after a meeting at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, Rathnayake emphasized the government’s commitment to maintaining the airline under state control.
The Minister reflected on the previous government's plan to privatize the national carrier, criticizing the management of SriLankan Airlines under former leadership. He noted that the airline had been "closed, sold, and destroyed" under prior administration, and highlighted the costly decision to keep grounded aircraft in storage. Rathnayake pointed out that three aircraft had been left without engines for three years, costing the government $9 million per month for their upkeep.
However, the Minister assured that under current leadership, efforts are being made to get the grounded aircraft back in operation. “One of the grounded aircraft is already operational, and the other two are expected to be ready by April,” he stated. These developments signal a move away from privatization plans and a commitment to securing the airline’s future without selling it.
Mr.Rathnayake also credited individuals like Ganegoda for their efforts in securing necessary funding to reinstate the airline’s fleet. This shift in direction comes as part of a broader strategy to strengthen SriLankan Airlines, ensuring it continues to operate as a key state asset.
