SriLankan Airlines faced significant operational disruptions after three of its aircraft encountered simultaneous technical issues upon arrival at Katunayake Airport. According to a spokesperson, all aircraft undergo routine technical evaluations after completing flights, and these evaluations identified the need for immediate maintenance for the three affected planes. The maintenance process, which ensures the safety and airworthiness of the aircraft, requires time and has resulted in flight cancellations and delays.
Among the canceled flights was UL-123, which was scheduled to depart for Chennai, India, at 6:35 PM on November 17. Its corresponding return flight, UL-124, which was set to arrive at Katunayake from Chennai at 10:15 PM on the same day, was also canceled. Additionally, UL-196, scheduled to arrive from New Delhi, India, at 10:10 PM, and another flight from Melbourne, Australia, set to land at 10:20 PM, were called off due to the unavailability of operational aircraft.
SriLankan Airlines has taken measures to notify affected passengers promptly and has arranged alternative flights for those needing to reach their destinations. The airline has assured that its priority is to minimize inconvenience to passengers while maintaining the highest safety standards.
The technical issues have also caused disruptions to other flights scheduled after midnight on November 18. While the airline has not yet published a revised schedule, passengers are advised to stay in touch with SriLankan Airlines for updates regarding their flights.
The airline emphasized that while these disruptions are regrettable, they underscore its commitment to safety by ensuring that all technical evaluations and maintenance processes are thorough and uncompromised. The spokesperson reiterated that the aircraft would be returned to service as soon as they meet all safety and operational requirements.
SriLankan Airlines is continuing its efforts to resolve the situation quickly and has urged passengers to remain patient as alternative arrangements are being made to minimize the impact of the delays and cancellations.
