COLOMBO- Former Civil Aviation Authority Chairman Upul Dharmadasa asserts that Sri Lankan Airlines (UL) possesses the capability to generate US $1 billion in revenue for flights within three months if proper leadership and policies are implemented.
“Sri Lankan Airlines is an airline that can make over US $1 billion in three months. We need the right aviation professionals and policy continuity to achieve this,” Dharmadasa stated.
Photo: Clément AlloingSriLankan Airlines Success Strategy
In an interview with Mirror Business, Dharmadasa presented a comprehensive revival strategy for the struggling national carrier. His plan emphasizes recruiting skilled aviation professionals who have departed the country, expanding international routes, and implementing digital innovations to enhance efficiency and boost revenue generation.
Dharmadasa emphasized that route expansion and improved asset utilization would significantly benefit the airline. He specifically highlighted the untapped potential in serving the global Sri Lankan diaspora through flights to underserved North American destinations.
“We can easily operate flights to these destinations that cater to expats and potential tourists. If we establish the right connections and scheduling, this will create a strong revenue stream.”
-Upul Dharmadasa, Former Chairman, Civil Aviation Authority, Sri Lanka
The former chairman further noted that Sri Lankan Airlines could explore flights to Caribbean countries where expatriate communities struggle with limited air connectivity at reasonable prices. Many expatriates work in the hospitality sector and face challenges with air travel options.
Dharmadasa suggested establishing a Miami (MIA)-Colombo (CMB) route to serve both Caribbean expatriates and Sri Lankan expatriates residing in the United States.
Photo: By Oliver Holzbauer, CC BY-SA 2.0Policy Reforms and Regulatory Concerns
Drawing inspiration from the Fly America Act, Dharmadasa proposed that the Cabinet of Ministers implement a policy requiring government officials, including diplomats, to prioritize the national airline for official travel. In the United States, federal law mandates government-funded travelers to use U.S. air carriers whenever available.
Dharmadasa criticized decisions regarding the fifth freedom rights granted to foreign airlines, particularly in 2024 and those benefiting Middle Eastern carriers. He claimed these policies cost Sri Lankan Airlines approximately US $500 million on the Colombo (CMB)-Male (MLE) route.
“The previous government granted fifth freedom rights to the UAE and as a result, Sri Lankan Airlines lost around US $500 million.”
-Upul Dharmadasa, Former Chairman, Civil Aviation Authority, Sri Lanka
Policy consistency represents another critical concern for Dharmadasa, who stressed that frequent regulatory and leadership changes have impeded the airline’s ability to execute long-term strategies effectively.
Photo: SriLankan AirlinesDigital Transformation and Financial Management
A central component of Dharmadasa’s proposal involves transitioning to New Distribution Capability (NDC), a digital framework enabling airlines to sell tickets directly and bypass traditional third-party booking systems.
“If Sri Lankan Airlines had fully implemented NDC, we wouldn’t be paying millions in commissions to foreign ticketing platforms,” he emphasized, noting that modernizing sales channels could substantially reduce costs while increasing direct revenue.
Dharmadasa also identified inefficiencies in the airline’s credit card payment systems and suggested implementing a localized payment processing system to minimize currency exchange losses. He supports the new government’s announcement to absorb Sri Lankan Airlines’ legacy debt.
Background and Expertise
Dharmadasa assumed the CAA Chairman position in 2020 during an unprecedented crisis in global and Sri Lankan aviation. He successfully led efforts to repatriate 138,000 stranded Sri Lankans worldwide during the height of the pandemic.
With more than 45 years of experience in aviation and hospitality, Dharmadasa is considered Sri Lanka’s most senior aviation professional with roots in the national carrier. He began his aviation career at Air Ceylon (AE) as a cabin crew member in 1975. Later, he established several travel and hospitality ventures in the United States and has promoted Sri Lanka as a tourist destination across all 50 states.
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