SriLankan Airlines is currently facing a major problem of pilots exiting the airline. Calling it a major issue for the airline, CEO Richard Nuttall said that pilots with eligible experience have started leaving the airline as several global airlines are on the lookout for pilots.
Speaking to local media, Nuttall said: “As you know, we have restrictions on the recruitment of pilots. Now we see an exodus of airline pilots, due to several reasons, maybe also because we are a state enterprise.”
Prior to the pandemic, the airline had 318 pilots, post-COVID the number fell to 265 and the current team of pilots has been reduced to 235 with nearly 40 to follow suit in the coming months, daily FT reported.
“The board has started discussions on the issue and we have discussed the matter with the relevant ministry as well. We are looking at taking the necessary measures to address this issue,” Nuttall added.
Experts are of the opinion that the major reason behind this is the salary concern as the current salary offered by the airline is much lower as compared to international standards.