The government is actively evaluating all possible strategies to restructure SriLankan Airlines, which is burdened with debt. Options under consideration include privatization and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs).
Deputy Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Harshana Suriyapperuma, stated that an expert committee is thoroughly analyzing the best course of action while adhering to government directives.
“We are exploring all available options, including asset funds, privatization, management changes, or even amalgamation. Our focus is on making the best decision based on the committee’s recommendations,” he said at the Invest Sri Lanka Forum.
He emphasized that the government has no predetermined preference and will approach the matter with caution.
Regarding the restructuring timeline, Dr. Suriyapperuma acknowledged the difficulty of specifying a timeframe but confirmed that the committee has been given a deadline, which remains undisclosed.
Initially, in October 2024, the new government abandoned privatization plans in favor of internal restructuring to enhance profitability. However, recent pressure from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has brought privatization back into consideration.
