SriLankan Airlines is gearing up to expand its operations in the Middle East region by acquiring more leased aircraft to strengthen its fleet. With plans to increase its current fleet of 21 to 22 aircraft in July, the airline is set to add three more aircraft within the next three months, reaching a total of 25 aircraft by the end of the year. This move is seen as crucial to meeting the growing demand of passengers in the region and improving the carrier’s turnaround.
Richard Nuttall, the CEO of SriLankan Airlines, highlighted the importance of fleet modernization in the airline’s strategy and growth plans. He emphasized the role of leased aircraft in increasing frequency on existing routes and expanding to new destinations. Nuttall, an industry veteran with extensive experience in the aviation sector, expressed confidence in the airline’s future prospects despite the challenging environment, citing strategic initiatives to enhance operations and customer experience.
Nuttall also touched upon the ongoing privatization process of SriLankan Airlines, which is part of the country’s IMF program aimed at improving the airline’s balance sheet through debt restructuring. He mentioned that the government is actively engaged in talks with potential investors to find a suitable buyer for the airline. The CEO remains optimistic about the future of SriLankan Airlines, whether it undergoes privatization or not, as the restructuring process has positioned the airline on a positive trajectory.
With strong ties and codeshare agreements with major airlines in the GCC region, SriLankan Airlines operates daily flights to Colombo from key cities like Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Doha, Riyadh, and Kuwait. The airline also serves other destinations in the Middle East, including Dammam and Jeddah. Despite facing competition on some routes, the airline aims to increase its market share and passenger numbers with the addition of more aircraft to its fleet, providing better connectivity across its network.
In terms of financial performance, SriLankan Airlines has seen notable improvements, recording a profit in recent years compared to previous losses. With a focus on fleet expansion and operational efficiency, the airline aims to sustain profitability and growth in the years ahead. Nuttall emphasized the potential for increased market share and passenger numbers, particularly on routes connecting to the GCC, Indian, and Far East regions. Overall, SriLankan Airlines is poised for a bright future as it continues to strengthen its fleet and enhance its services in the competitive aviation market.
