Amidst most global airlines cutting flights and shrinking operations due to skyrocketing jet fuel prices, the government has confirmed that national carrier SriLankan Airlines will continue all its current international routes without any cuts, even as major carriers around the world struggle to survive rising costs.
Ports and Civil Aviation Minister Anura Karunathilaka told the Daily Mirror that the government has signed an agreement with the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) to supply fuel on credit for a limited period. He also revealed that the Treasury has stepped in with a grant to support the airline during this difficult time.
“We have not taken any decision to reduce or limit long-haul operations,” the Minister said, adding that global fuel price pressure was affecting all airlines.
But critics say the move could be risky. Jet fuel prices have pushed airline costs to record levels, and ticket prices around the world are rising sharply as a result. Many airlines say they simply cannot absorb the losses anymore.
In India, the situation is even more alarming. Major carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have reportedly warned of possible service suspensions, saying they are close to shutting down parts of their operations due to unsustainable fuel costs. Aviation turbine fuel now makes up nearly 60% of total operating expenses in some cases.
Soaring jet fuel prices in 2026, driven by conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, are causing significant, widespread disruption to global aviation. This has resulted in thousands of flight cancellations, massive capacity cuts, and sharply higher airfares worldwide. While not a complete halt to global travel, the crisis has forced airlines to severely reduce operations across many routes.
Despite this global pressure, Sri Lanka is maintaining full international operations, including long-distance routes to destinations such as France, Frankfurt, London, Sydney, and Narita, according to officials from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).
Some aviation experts say Sri Lanka’s decision could help maintain tourism and international connectivity during a fragile economic recovery. Others warn it may place additional pressure on state finances if fuel subsidies continue.
For now, Sri Lanka is doing what many airlines are avoiding by keeping every route open while the global aviation industry tightens its belt. (Daily Mirror)
