National carrier, SriLankan Airlines will be getting its full fleet activated by the end of this year, the airline said on Friday with plans for the future to be rolled out soon.
Currently there are three Airbus A320neo aircraft grounded due to the unavailability of engines, the carrier said in response to an email interview with The Sunday Times Business.
“Most of the engines are undergoing repairs, and we expect to activate the fleet by the end of the year,” it was stated.
With three more aircraft expected the airline has a plan to grow its fleet to 27 aircraft by the end of next year.
The airline said that they are affected by supply chain constraints to acquire Airbus A320neo aircraft engines and complete heavy maintenance checks. Although the supply of new aircraft is limited, there are good quality mid-life aircraft available in the global market. The airline will be looking at purchasing leasing out these second hand aircraft due to the global shortage.
SriLankan Airlines is expected to roll out their new business plan in future that has been drawn up in line with future demand and competition.
Aviation Minister Nimal Siripala De Silva had reportedly stated at a media briefing this week that authorities were currently evaluating six bidders for the carrier that was called by the country’s State Owned Enterprises Restructuring Unit to divest the airline.
It was pointed out that the parties should have a strong balance sheet and expertise in a bid to ensure that the jobs of 6000 people are at stake.
By Sunimalee Dias | Sunday Times
