SriLankan grapples with pilot shortage amid ongoing economic turmoil

• SriLankan Airlines green lighted to recruit foreign pilots if need arises 
• State-owned airline expects to have a healthy profit this year

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya  

Nearly 60 pilots have left SriLankan Airlines in the last 12 months and the airline is in the process of recruiting pilots and it has already got approval from the government to recruit foreign pilots, if required, to face the shortage, the Chief Executive Officer of SriLankan Airlines Richard Nuttall said.  

The loss-making airline witnessed a significant departure of pilots in response to the recent national economic challenges.  

The country’s sovereign debt default and the government’s decision to impose higher taxes prompted some pilots to leave the airline. These departures have posed a challenge for SriLankan Airlines in maintaining its pilot workforce.  

The CEO said that the airline requires at least 30 pilots this year, and potentially 50 more by the middle of next year. “Fortunately, there is a pool of skilled pilots available in Southeast Asia and Northern Europe.  

He said that the airline has received government approval to hire foreign pilots, should the need arise to address the current shortage.”It’s approved, and the package offered to foreign pilots is on par with that of local pilots, with the exception of international standard housing,” he said.  

SriLankan Airlines currently operates a vast network of 112 destinations spanning 58 countries. With a fleet of 23 aircraft, SriLankan Airlines has temporarily grounded three of its aircraft for engine repairs. All of its aircraft in the fleet are leased.  

According to the pilot cadre within the airline, SriLankan Airlines currently operates with a team comprising 143 captains, 53 first officers, and 26 junior first officers. Additionally, the airline is actively nurturing its future talent pool, with 14 cadet pilots undergoing training within the organization.  

The CEO pointed out that the airline industry is notoriously capital-intensive and has a history of being challenging for governments to operate profitably.  
He said that turning a profit in the coming years might be slightly more challenging than the present year. However, he expressed optimism that strategic growth initiatives, including expanding the airline’s hub, acquiring new aircraft, and strengthening the entire network, will create a more resilient and cost-effective operation.