SriLankan Unveils New 5-Year Vision
State-owned SriLankan Airlines (UL), based at Colombo International, has charted a bold new course with the announcement of a comprehensive five-year corporate plan. This strategic blueprint comes after the government scrapped ambitions to sell a majority stake in the flag carrier last year. SriLankan’s chairman, Sarath Ganegoda, revealed that the new plan builds on the airline’s previous five-year strategy from 2019, with a strong focus on operational efficiency, financial sustainability, customer satisfaction, and fleet expansion.
Ganegoda, who was appointed chairman in October 2024 after a government-led board refresh, emphasized the critical need to modernize the airline’s operations. “We are committed to enhancing our service levels, optimizing our operational processes, and ensuring that our financial performance is robust over the next five years,” he stated. One of the cornerstone objectives in the plan is the expansion of the airline’s fleet. Ganegoda mentioned that the carrier will soon add three new aircraft to its current lineup. Moreover, to fully meet operational requirements, SriLankan Airlines estimates a need for a total fleet of 27 aircraft.
Currently, ch-aviation fleets data shows that SriLankan Airlines operates 22 aircraft. The existing fleet includes seven Airbus A320-200s, two A320-200Ns, and four A321-200Ns (three of which are inactive). The widebody segment comprises two Airbus A330-200s and seven A330-300s. With this new plan, the carrier is poised to gradually replace older assets while capturing new opportunities in the evolving aviation landscape.
The renewed focus on operational efficiency comes at a critical time for SriLankan Airlines. After previous years of challenges, the airline is determined to restore its reputation and build a solid financial foundation. Ganegoda underscored that the plan emphasizes cost controls, streamlining processes, and better asset management. This direction aims to enhance profitability even as the airline aggressively expands its service network both domestically and internationally.
Customer satisfaction is another pillar of the five-year plan. The airline is committed to investing in service enhancements—from upgraded cabin interiors and in-flight entertainment to improved ground services and digital innovations. Such efforts are expected to not only attract new passengers but also retain loyal customers in an increasingly competitive market. With high expectations for quality service, this plan aims to boost overall customer experience while driving long-term growth.
The strategic plan also comes as a signal to potential investors and market watchers that the government and airline leadership are dedicated to transforming SriLankan Airlines into a more dynamic, market-responsive carrier. The new chairman, Sarath Ganegoda, brings extensive experience from his previous role as an executive director at Hayleys Group, a leading local conglomerate. His leadership is seen as a catalyst for positive change, and industry analysts are optimistic that these moves will help the airline meet its growth targets while navigating the challenging economic environment.
Although the government’s earlier privatization plans were eventually dropped in July 2024—after potential bidders, including Hayleys and others, were deemed unsuitable—the new strategy reaffirms the state’s commitment to a revitalized, competitive national carrier. With an eye on the future, SriLankan Airlines is set to build on its legacy while adapting to modern industry demands.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com