SriLankan Airlines Wants Airbus Aircraft For Free

SriLankan Airlines is seeking substantial compensation from Airbus, which would include next-generation A330neos at no cost.

The carrier believes that financial compensation from the European planemaker is required and is going so far as to demand the return of USD 23.3 million in pre-delivery payments.

Additionally, the carrier is seeking compensation of upwards of USD 200 million, including the delivery of up to four A330neos, for which no charges would be incurred.

SriLankan Airlines holds this view due to the challenges it faced in acquiring A330-300s and A350-900s in its recent history. Only part of that deal eventuated, thanks to the support of global lessors.

This significant deal for wide-body aircraft was initially announced in 2013 and included six A330-300s and four A350-900 jets. Still, corruption and other obstacles prevented the deal from working out as intended.

These requests, stemming from the airline’s complex history, have raised alarm bells industry-wide and left Airbus pondering what’s next with this customer.

Much of the airline’s pursuit of this compensation is driven by the newly appointed Chairman of SriLankan Airlines, who is adamant that what is rightfully the airline’s will be reclaimed, including funds.

Away from its struggles with Airbus, the carrier is also entering negotiations with Rolls-Royce. This key engine manufacturer played a role in all these circumstances, which were far from ideal.

A Complicated Future For SriLankan Airlines

For SriLankan Airlines, its history has mainly been complex, with corruption playing a significant role in recent years. Moreover, as political unrest continues to be a prevalent part of the company’s day-to-day, it remains far from optimal.

Adjustments to the airline’s senior leadership have also been a common occurrence, with the high-ranking CEO position left unfilled as searches continue for a replacement.

Now, a strained relationship with Airbus occupies headlines as the airline faces yet another struggle to overcome, but if achieved, compensation will be necessary for the rebuilding efforts.

Corruption remains a substantial focal point for the company, with past findings showing that the airline accepted bribes to take on Airbus aircraft at prices far above the list value, especially when significant discounts are typically offered to airlines.