National carrier SriLankan Airlines continues to grapple with a challenging scenario marked by multiple grounded aircraft and a pronounced shortage of technical personnel, exacerbating existing financial woes.
On December 17th, an A330 aircraft, assigned the flight number UL 563 and departing from Katunayake to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, encountered a technical fault reportedly linked to damage to the brakes and axle. The aircraft remains immobilized at Charles de Gaulle, with its scheduled return to Sri Lanka on December 18th.
This incident contributes to the grounding of the ninth aircraft in SriLankan Airlines’ current fleet. Among these, five are grounded due to the absence of essential equipment, while two are undergoing maintenance. Sources within the airline cite a scarcity of manpower as an additional hindrance to maintenance efforts, further delaying the return of these aircraft to operational status.
The shortage of engineers and technicians has been an ongoing concern for SriLankan Airlines. Since January 2022, the company has experienced the departure of 138 experienced technicians due to resignations, promotions, and retirements. The allure of the aviation market, coupled with the economic situation in the country, has reportedly prompted many professionals to explore opportunities elsewhere.
Presently, SriLankan Airlines operates with approximately 380 flight technicians, falling short of the required 475, and the number of experienced technicians is further constrained to around 280. The company’s licensed aircraft engineers also face similar challenges, with 40 of their 160 members having recently left the country.
