Maj. Gen. G. A. Chandrasiri: Guiding Sri Lanka’s aviation triumph

 Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri’s focus on ongoing projects reflects his foresight and dedication to positioning Sri Lanka as a global aviation hub

In the world of aviation, where challenges soar as high as the planes themselves, the leadership of Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) G. A. Chandrasiri RWP VSV USP ndc psc has been nothing short of transformative. Appointed as the Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Pvt Ltd (AASL) in December 2019, Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri has steered the organization through unprecedented times, leaving an indelible mark on the Sri Lankan aviation landscape.   

Over the past four years, Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri has played a pivotal role in the development of the aviation industry, providing unwavering leadership to the Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Limited. This state enterprise, bestowed with statutory powers, manages and develops civil international airports in Sri Lanka, including the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Mattala Rajapaksa International Airport (MRIA), Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana (CIAR), Batticaloa International Airport (BTIA), and Jaffna International Airport (JIA).  
Even in the face of the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, his leadership was a beacon of resilience. Throughout the pandemic and the subsequent recovery period, he guided the company to fulfill its national responsibilities with integrity. Under his adept stewardship, the company not only weathered a storm, but also achieved remarkable financial milestones.  

The prudent leadership with highest integrity and strategic decision-making, coupled with meticulous financial discipline, have catapulted Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Limited to new heights. During the period from January 1 to September 30, 2023, the company reported astaggering total gross revenue of Rs. 28.5 billion, marking a phenomenal 57% increase. Notably, an operational profit of Rs. 15.9 billion was recorded during the same period, showcasing Mr. Chandrasiri’s astute financial acumen.  

Key project milestones

Thanks to Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri’s guidance, several key projects have come to fruition, solidifying Sri Lanka’s position in the global aviation arena. BIA, the country’s primary international gateway, witnessed strategic enhancements, ensuring a seamless travel experience for passengers.  
(MRIA also underwent transformative developments, reflecting Chandrasiri’s commitment to comprehensive airport management. The Colombo International Airport, Ratmalana, Batticaloa International Airport, and Jaffna International Airport have all benefited from his visionary leadership, positioning them for sustained growth and efficiency.   

His pivotal role in enhancing airport infrastructure is exemplified by the successful completion of several key projects during his tenure such as Bandaranaike International Airport Development Project – Phase II – Stage 2, Expansion to Departure Public Concourse at BIA, Katunayake, Proposed New Extension to the Navigational Services Complex Building at BIA, Relocation of Emigration Area at Passenger Terminal Building, BIA, Refurbishment of Araliya Lounge at Terminal Building, Bandaranaike International Airport, etc.  

Contributions for the future 

Looking ahead, Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri envisions a future marked by innovation and progress. The strategic roadmap includes further modernisation of airport facilities, implementation of cutting-edge technologies, and a focus on sustainability initiatives. Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri’s vision extends beyond national borders, positioning Sri Lanka as a hub for international travel and commerce.  
Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri’s focus on ongoing projects reflects his foresight and dedication to positioning Sri Lanka as a global aviation hub. These initiatives, ranging from advanced communication infrastructure to modern cargo facilities, are integral components of a comprehensive strategy aimed at propelling our nation’s aviation capabilities to new heights.   

Navigating challenges

The years 2020 and 2021 posed unparalleled challenges for both our nation and AASL, magnified by the global COVID-19 crisis. In the face of adversity Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri, provided exemplary leadership, steering the institution through turbulent times with unwavering commitment and strategic foresight.  

Since March 2020, AASL undertook significant measures to rebuild public confidence in utilising aviation services in Sri Lanka. Noteworthy accomplishments includes ACI Accreditation, PCR Laboratories, Vaccination Drive, Health Guidelines Adherence, Hospinorm Laboratory Lounge, Rapid PCR Testing Service for UAE Travellers, Permanent Health Screening Facility.  
AASL demonstrated its commitment to corporate responsibility by significantly contributing to the national exchequer through dividends provided to the government of Sri Lanka. This underscores the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen actively participating in the economic development of the country.  

For example, in 2023, AASL paid Rs. 5 billion in the form of dividends to the government of Sri Lanka. AASL continued to maintain the 4000 employees of AASL during the period of global pandemic and the economic crisis despite the challenges. Specially, BIA and MRIA played a pivotal role in facilitating the repatriation flight movements and bring in medical aids and vaccine programme.   

In an inspiring display of corporate social responsibility, AASL, under the guidance of Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri, made significant contributions to the country’s fight against the pandemic. A donation of Rs. 10 million to the COVID-19 Healthcare and Social Security Fund, comprising the days’ worth of salary from the Chairman, Board of Directors, and Employees of AASL, exemplified their commitment to the national cause.   

Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri

The years 2020 and 2021 brought unprecedented challenges for AASL, marked by the profound impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic and economic uncertainties. Despite facing adversity, the institution, under the adept leadership of Maj. Gen. Chandrasiri, exhibited remarkable resilience and strategic acumen, transforming a period of losses into a narrative of profitability and success.  
His visionary leadership and strategic decision-making were pivotal in steering the company through challenging times. The ability to adapt, innovate, and implement effective financial discipline played a crucial role in the company’s resurgence.  

In a striking display of corporate responsibility, AASL not only achieved financial success but also contributed significantly to the national exchequer. The dividends provided to the government of Sri Lanka underscore the company’s commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen, actively participating in the country’s economic development.  
Over the period from 2019 to 2023, Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL) witnessed a series of momentous occasions, each intricately tied to the visionary leadership of Chairman Maj. Gen. (Rtd.) G. A. Chandrasiri. These special events, highlighted during the Chairman’s visits, underscore AASL’s commitment to innovation, excellence, and elevating the passenger experience.  

Advancements in infrastructure with new agreements for the Terminal-2 project at Bandaranaike International Airport.  
Each of these occasions not only reflects the commitment of AASL to excellence in aviation but also underscores the dynamic leadership of Maj. Gen. G. A. Chandrasiri in steering the organization towards continuous innovation and growth. Further, under the leadership of the Chairman, AASL has been well managed with the highest integrity without any burden to the government of Sri Lanka and the citizens of the country setting an example to other state-owned enterprises in Sri Lanka too.  
As we look towards the future, these milestones serve as a testament to AASL’s role in shaping the landscape of aviation in Sri Lanka.