After nearly a decade, SriLankan Airlines has added a new aircraft to its fleet.
The Airbus A330-200, registered as 4R-ALT, arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport this morning (4).
The aircraft, previously operated by Garuda Indonesia, was acquired on a lease basis and is powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines. It features 18 Business Class seats and 242 Economy Class seats, all equipped with wireless in-flight entertainment and USB charging ports, offering passengers a modern and comfortable travel experience.
Before landing, the aircraft performed a low-altitude fly-past along the western coastline—from Colombo Port City to Moratuwa—drawing crowds along the shoreline who gathered to witness the grand arrival.
The fly-past was a suggestion by Captain Patrick, and executed under the command of Captain Rajinda Ranatunga, who piloted the aircraft from Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris.
The aircraft touched down at 9:30 AM, where it was greeted with a traditional water salute at the airport.
Speaking to the media, Chairman Sarath Clement Ganegoda emphasized that this addition is part of a broader strategy to scale operations. “Rather than downsizing, we are expanding to reach a scale that ensures profitability,” he stated.
He also reaffirmed the airline’s commitment to financial independence, noting that SriLankan Airlines has not sought Treasury support in recent months and aims to continue operating without burdening the state.
With this addition, the airline’s fleet now stands at 23 aircraft, and the new A330-200 will be deployed across both short- and long-haul routes, depending on operational requirements.
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