SriLankan Airlines has announced the addition of an Airbus A330-200 to its fleet as part of a broader strategy to expand its international network and modernize its long-haul operations. The widebody jet, which joined the fleet this week, is the first of several aircraft the airline plans to acquire through 2025.
The latest A330-200 will be deployed on key medium- and long-haul routes across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, offering increased capacity and improved operational efficiency.
“The induction of the A330-200 marks a significant step in our fleet renewal and expansion strategy,” said Richard Nuttall, CEO of SriLankan Airlines. “This aircraft will support our ambitions to enhance network connectivity, improve passenger comfort, and return the airline to sustainable profitability.”
Eyeing New Routes and Network Growth
With the new aircraft, SriLankan Airlines plans to launch or resume service to several high-demand destinations that were suspended during the pandemic. The airline has hinted at route resumptions to Paris and Frankfurt, as well as potential new destinations in Southeast Asia and East Africa.
“We are actively evaluating underserved markets with strong demand for both leisure and VFR (visiting friends and relatives) traffic,” Nuttall added. “This A330 opens up new route opportunities that align with our strategic growth plan.”
The airline currently operates a mixed fleet of Airbus A320s and A330s, and the addition of another A330-200 will strengthen its widebody capability ahead of peak travel seasons.
More Aircraft Coming in 2025
SriLankan Airlines confirmed it is in advanced stages of negotiation to lease or acquire additional widebody and narrowbody aircraft over the next 12 to 18 months. Sources close to the matter suggest at least three more aircraft are likely to join the fleet in 2025, including another A330 and new-generation narrowbodies.
The expansion is part of a phased recovery strategy, as the airline seeks to rebuild after years of pandemic-related disruption and financial headwinds. Backed by improving tourism arrivals and a stable fuel outlook, SriLankan is cautiously optimistic about growth.
“Fleet modernization and network diversification are key to long-term sustainability,” said aviation analyst Yohan Perera of Colombo-based AeroConsult. “With smart deployment and careful financial planning, SriLankan has the potential to reclaim lost ground.”
Enhanced Passenger Experience
The newly inducted A330-200 features a two-class cabin with upgraded inflight entertainment and improved seating, aimed at enhancing the passenger experience on longer routes. The airline says it is also reviewing plans to retrofit additional aircraft to maintain a consistent onboard product across its fleet.
SriLankan Airlines, the national carrier of Sri Lanka and a member of the oneworld alliance, currently operates to over 35 destinations across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Australia. With the addition of this A330, the airline hopes to tap into growing transit demand through Colombo and position itself as a strategic connector between South Asia and the rest of the world.
