SriLankan Airlines Reaches New Heights in Aviation Training as Six Senior Etihad Airways Pilots Complete Specialised Airbus A330 Programme

The Flight Training Division of SriLankan Airlines has successfully completed a specialised Airbus A330 Line Flying Under Supervision (LFUS) training programme for six senior pilot instructors and examiners from Etihad Airways. The initiative highlights Etihad Airways’ trust in SriLankan Airlines’ aviation training expertise, operational standards and technical capabilities. It also marks another important step in strengthening professional cooperation and knowledge sharing between the two national carriers.

The programme brought together five Type Rating Examiners (TREs) and one Senior Type Rating Examiner (STRE) from Etihad Airways. Throughout the training, participants benefited from the guidance of SriLankan Airlines’ qualified flight instructors, experienced cockpit crews and dedicated operational support teams. Their combined expertise helped deliver a structured, safe and effective training experience, reinforcing SriLankan Airlines’ ability to provide specialised flight training for highly experienced aviation professionals.

Captain Chaminda De Zoysa, Head of Flight Operations at SriLankan Airlines, commented on the programme’s success, stating, “For SriLankan Airlines, this opportunity represented more than a single training assignment. It demonstrates the airline’s ability to leverage its Airbus A330 fleet, experienced instructors, operational expertise and established training infrastructure to support the training and development of aviation professionals from other major global carriers. The initiative also highlights the potential of SriLankan Airlines Flight Training to serve as a regional aviation training partner, offering specialised and high-quality training solutions to international operators.”

The successful implementation of the programme was made possible through careful preparation, close collaboration and extensive coordination led by SriLankan Airlines. The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), the Ministry of Defence and other key stakeholders played an important role in establishing the necessary operational framework and obtaining essential regulatory approvals. Their combined efforts helped ensure that the training programme was conducted efficiently, smoothly and in accordance with the required aviation standards.

By introducing specialised aviation training programmes, SriLankan Airlines continues to expand its contribution to the global aviation industry beyond its core passenger and cargo operations. These initiatives highlight the airline’s technical capabilities, operational experience and commitment to maintaining high professional standards. Through its established training infrastructure and experienced aviation personnel, the national carrier is creating opportunities to share industry knowledge while supporting the professional development of aviation specialists from international airlines.

The airline’s growing involvement in advanced aviation training also reflects its ability to provide practical learning experiences that meet the demanding requirements of modern flight operations. By combining technical expertise with operational knowledge, SriLankan Airlines helps aviation professionals strengthen their skills, improve their understanding of flight procedures and enhance their overall operational competence. Such programmes also demonstrate the importance of continuous learning, professional collaboration and knowledge exchange in maintaining safety and efficiency across the international aviation sector.

Beyond professional training, these initiatives contribute to strengthening Sri Lanka’s position within the regional aviation industry. The country’s established aviation infrastructure, experienced flight instructors and technical resources provide a foundation for developing specialised training opportunities. By welcoming aviation professionals from overseas carriers, SriLankan Airlines can further encourage international cooperation, build stronger relationships with industry partners and showcase Sri Lanka’s capabilities in delivering professional aviation education and operational training.

Looking ahead, specialised training collaborations could create additional opportunities for SriLankan Airlines to broaden its international partnerships and strengthen its presence in the aviation training sector. Continued investment in professional development, technical knowledge and industry cooperation could help the airline attract greater interest from overseas aviation operators seeking high-quality training support. These efforts also support Sri Lanka’s longer-term ambition to establish itself as a competitive regional centre for aviation training, professional excellence and technical development, while contributing to the advancement of international aviation standards.