SriLankan Airlines Elevates Regional Aviation Training with Successful LFUS Programme for Etihad Airways
Colombo, Sri Lanka – October 2, 2026 – In a significant advancement for aviation training in the region, SriLankan Airlines’ Flight Training team has recently concluded a specialized Airbus A330 Line Flying Under Supervision (LFUS) programme tailored for six senior training and examination pilots from Etihad Airways. This initiative not only highlights the robust capabilities of SriLankan Airlines in the domain of aviation training but also reinforces the growing professional rapport between the two national airlines.
The successful completion of this programme, which involved five Type Rating Examiners (TREs) and one Senior Type Rating Examiner (STRE) from Etihad Airways, is a testament to the extensive planning and professional infrastructure established by SriLankan Airlines. Utilizing a combination of its Airbus A330 fleet, experienced flight instructors, and dedicated operational teams, the airline created a comprehensive training environment that ensured safety, effectiveness, and a rewarding experience for the visiting examiner pilots.
Captain Chaminda De Zoysa, Head of Flight Operations at SriLankan Airlines, articulated the broader significance of the initiative. He remarked, “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.” His emphasis on the airline’s capability to act as a regional training hub showcases SriLankan Airlines’ commitment to enhancing its role in the international aviation landscape through specialized and high-quality flight training solutions.
The underpinnings of the LFUS programme are a reflection of meticulous planning and coordination, undertaken by various entities, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the Ministry of Defence. These organizations played a crucial role in establishing the framework required to facilitate this important training exercise. The collaboration among these stakeholders was vital, as it allowed for the necessary regulatory clearances to be obtained efficiently, thereby ensuring the smooth execution of the programme.
SriLankan Airlines has consistently pursued initiatives that elevate its status within the global aviation training community. The completion of the LFUS programme not only underscores the airline’s operational prowess but also positions Sri Lanka as a burgeoning centre for aviation training in the Asia-Pacific region. As global air travel continues to expand, the demand for qualified aviation professionals has reached unprecedented levels. Programs like these ensure that SriLankan Airlines is well-prepared to meet these demands, ultimately contributing to the enhancement of safety and operational standards across the industry.
In a broader context, the collaboration between SriLankan Airlines and Etihad Airways opens doors for future partnerships in aviation training. As both airlines strive to maintain excellence in their operations, initiatives such as the LFUS programme exemplify a shared commitment to education and skill development within the aviation sector. Such partnerships not only benefit the airlines involved but also contribute to the overall growth of aviation standards and practices internationally.
Moreover, this collaboration embodies a broader trend within the Middle Eastern and South Asian aviation sectors, where airlines are increasingly investing in training and development to equip their personnel with the skills necessary to navigate the complex and evolving landscape of modern aviation. In a region where air travel serves as a vital component of economic growth, establishing robust training programs ensures that the aviation industry sustains its trajectory of progress.
As SriLankan Airlines continues to position itself as a key player in the aviation training arena, its initiatives will be watched closely by industry observers. The successful completion of the LFUS programme for Etihad Airways marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of regional aviation training, further solidifying Sri Lanka’s reputation as a centre of excellence in this essential field.
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