SriLankan Airlines is struggling to procure additional aircraft amidst supply shortage to expand their current operations and add new routes to their network. A global supply shortage is the cause of impediment in the aircraft acquisitions, according to Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, the Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation in Sri Lanka.
Global Aircraft Shortage Impact
According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), one of the leading struggles in the aviation industry is an aircraft shortage on a global scale. This is hindering the growth potential of carriers and creating a set back in renewal procedures. A solution to this shortage is improbable before the next decade.
“It is challenging for the government to obtain even one on a dry lease because of the shortage. We need at least one or two immediately,” Kodithuwakku stated.
The national carrier is looking to acquire no less than seven aircraft. To remedy this, the Sri Lankan Government is arranging to initiate a “special procurement process” in the near future to expedite the resolution, according to Kodithuwakku.
Expansion of SriLankan Airlines Operations
Looking to expand their current network of 59 countries and 117 destinations, the carrier is prioritising revenue increase and tactical scaling of operations to achieve this goal, says Sarath Ganegoda, Chairman of SriLankan Airlines.
“There are new routes we would like to add, and in some existing routes where we do not operate daily, we are looking to increase our services,” Ganegoda informed.
The fleet of SriLankan Airlines includes 23 Airbus aircraft, 10 of which are long haul A330, and 13 medium haul A320/321 planes. There is an outstanding order from 2013 for four Airbus A350 aircraft. The carrier is considering the cancellation of the order, or conversion to A330 planes.
Kodithuwakku says that despite pursuing expansion, there will be no adverse effects for customers in relation to ticket fares, and the continuation of regular activities would remain.
Which new routes and destinations are you hoping the carrier will include in the future? Tell us in the comments below.
