SriLankan Airlines’ much-anticipated CEO selection process has reached a key milestone, with three candidates now shortlisted for the final round of interviews, sources said.
As we reported earlier, the initial round of interviews took place last Saturday (28) at the Ministry, with 11 candidates evaluated. Despite concerns from the NPP government over prioritising local representation, most shortlisted candidates were reportedly foreign nationals. The Egyptian captain previously selected did not apply this time, following objections to appointing a foreign national.
According to unofficial sources, the interview panel comprised five senior officials, including a former Secretary of Ports and Civil Aviation, along with two members of the SriLankan Airlines Board. In contrast to the previous selection process, Chairman Sarath Ganegoda was not part of the panel, as he decided to step down today (31).
The final round of interviews is expected to include minister-level participation, highlighting the significance of the appointment as the national carrier navigates ongoing financial pressures and management challenges.
Industry observers note that if a foreign candidate is ultimately selected, it may raise questions, particularly given the government’s earlier decision to part ways with former CEO Richard Nuttall in May 2025 without publicly stated reasons. During the final months of his tenure, SriLankan Airlines reported an operational profit, adding further context to the ongoing debate.
Meanwhile, credible sources suggest that several well-known Sri Lankan aviation professionals who applied for the role were not shortlisted for interviews, raising concerns within industry circles about the selection process. However, a few are still attempting to secure an opportunity to be considered, even at the interview stage.
Effective today (31), A. K. D. D. Dimal Arandara, a senior official from the Ministry of Finance, is serving as the Acting Chairman of SriLankan Airlines.
As previously reported, the airline is currently being led by both an Acting Chairman and an Acting CEO. Navigating such a critical period, marked by operational constraints, including limited flight capacity and fuel-related challenges, makes decision-making in an acting capacity particularly demanding.
With the airline at a crucial juncture, the outcome of the final round of CEO interviews is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of SriLankan Airlines.
