SriLankan Airlines is currently reviewing its operations and expects to revert to its original schedule, which includes night time operations, by 15th September 2007. While stating that it was keen on reverting to its normal operating pattern, the Airline went on to explain that being the home based carrier operating 181 flights per week from its hub at the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Katunayake, there were several practical as well as operational issues to be addressed in the first instance which would take awhile and hence the anticipated date of 15th September 2007.

The Airline emphasized that its daytime operating schedule had been extended until September in order to ensure a degree of certainty to its passengers during this peak season for holiday traffic, particularly Sri Lankans visiting family and friends. A sudden change especially during this period could cause severe disruptions to travel plans resulting in loss of onward connections on other airlines which are also experiencing heavy loads at this time.

The Airline further explained that it was engaging in discussions with its Insurers regarding the anticipated recommencement of night time operations.

SriLankan has also redoubled its efforts to boost inbound traffic.

“We are working closely with the Tourist Board and other travel industry partners on the various initiatives taken to promote traffic into Sri Lanka at this time” said Peter Hill, Chief Executive Officer of SriLankan Airlines Limited. Mr. Hill also went on to say that, although night time operations were suspended in May 2007, the daytime operating schedule which was implemented had resulted in the cancellation of only 8 regional (short haul) flights out of 181 flights a week operated by the Airline prior to the suspension of night operations at BIA. This has ensured that travel to Sri Lanka was facilitated without any significant interruption or reduction in capacity.

July 10th, 2007