SriLankan Airlines’ first wide-body aircraft in seven years touches down at BIA

Thursday, 5 June 2025 04:39 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

SriLankan Airlines Chairman Sarath Ganegoda -Pix by Daminda Harsha Perera

SriLankan Airlines yesterday welcomed an Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft on arrival from Paris.

The aircraft, bearing registration number 4R-ALT, performed a low fly-past over Colombo and Katunayake before touching down at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). This latest addition brings SriLankan’s fleet to 23 aircraft, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to fleet expansion and paving the way for greater operational flexibility on long-haul routes, as it prepares for future growth amid rising passenger demand.

SriLankan Airlines Chairman Sarath Ganegoda said: “This marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for SriLankan Airlines, both operationally and in shaping our long-term fleet strategy. The addition of this aircraft enhances our capacity to meet the growing demand, while strengthening our contribution to national tourism goals. As Sri Lanka continues to ascend as a top-tier travel destination, this aircraft will play a key role in connecting global travellers to Sri Lanka.”

Acting CEO and Group CFO Yasantha Dissanayake said: “This is the first wide-body aircraft to be inducted into the fleet after a lapse of seven years. It will allow us to expand our reach in both existing and new markets, offering improved flight times, better connectivity, and more direct services to the country, whilst enhancing cargo capacity in support of Sri Lanka’s export trade. The aircraft also features in-flight amenities that meet the expectations of today’s traveller and provides a more comfortable flying experience.”

Chief Technical Officer Capt. Patrick Fernando said: “This is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen the fleet and induct more wide-body aircraft in the near future. The aircraft is equipped with wireless in-flight entertainment and individual USB charging ports at every seat for enhanced passenger convenience. It is powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines and presents a two-class configuration with 18 Business Class and 242 Economy Class seats. The aircraft will serve both long-haul and select short-haul routes.”

SriLankan Airlines’ current fleet comprises 13 narrow-body and 10 wide-body aircraft, including this latest addition.

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