June 4, 2025 | TDT Team

Marking a significant milestone in its fleet expansion strategy, SriLankan Airlines has welcomed a brand-new Airbus A330-200 to its fleet—the first wide-body aircraft to join the national carrier in eight years. Registered as 4R-ALT, the aircraft arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport today from France and was received with a ceremonial water salute.

The addition brings SriLankan Airlines’ total fleet strength to 23, including 10 wide-body and 13 narrow-body aircraft, all from Airbus. The wide-body A330s serve long-haul routes, while the A320/A321s cater to regional and medium-haul operations.

“This aircraft is an important step in our goal to reconnect Sri Lanka to more profitable and underserved markets,” said Sarath Ganegoda, Chairman of SriLankan Airlines, during the arrival ceremony. He added that the carrier is currently unable to operate routes such as Beijing-Colombo, Nairobi-Colombo, and services to Australia and East Africa due to aircraft shortages.

Looking ahead, Ganegoda confirmed the airline is in talks to acquire additional wide-body aircraft and plans to induct at least two more into the fleet by the end of the year. The newly acquired A330-200 has been leased for eight years from a French lessor, with an option to extend.