SriLankan Airlines seeking further 100 billion rupees in State funds

The loss-making national carrier, SriLankan Airlines, is seeking a further 100 billion rupees in State funds, according to opposition MP Harsha de Silva. De Silva criticised the management of the government regarding the airline, claiming that SriLankan Airlines requested an additional 100 billion rupees from the government despite continuing to operate at a loss.

Speaking to a television channel, de Silva also raised concerns over the leadership of the airline, claiming it is without a Chief Executive Officer for around one-and-a-half years and currently operates without a chairman. De Silva further alleged that questions arose over potential conflicts of interest involving a previous chairman appointed by the government, and questioned the transparency of key appointments made to the airline. The opposition MP said the public deserves answers on how SriLankan Airlines is being managed, arguing that the issues surrounding funding, governance, and leadership require greater accountability.