SriLankan Airlines has recently expanded its fleet with the addition of a new Airbus A320 aircraft, designated with the serial number 4R – ABS. This newly leased aircraft, which arrived from Malaysia to Colombo on the night of December 21, 2023, increases the airline’s total count to 22 aircraft. The lease agreement for the Airbus A320 is set for a period of six years.
The aircraft’s arrival is particularly timely, given the industry-wide challenges faced this year, including shortages of available aircraft and engines, as well as supply chain issues that have extended maintenance times. These challenges have led to a reduction in flights across the industry. However, the addition of 4R – ABS marks the beginning of a series of fleet enhancements for SriLankan Airlines. The airline anticipates the integration of three more aircraft by January 2024, including a wet-leased A330 and two additional engines. Another aircraft, a sister to 4R – ABS, is expected to join the fleet in March 2024.
SriLankan Airlines Balances Fleet with Mix of Narrow and Wide-Bodied Aircraft
Equipped with advanced Sharklet wingtips, the Airbus A320 4R – ABS is designed to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. It features a seating configuration of 12 Business Class and 138 Economy Class seats. The aircraft is set to be deployed primarily on the airline’s short and medium-haul routes, which encompass destinations across the Indian subcontinent, the Far East, and the Middle East.
SriLankan Airlines, a member of the oneworld Alliance, currently operates direct flights between Colombo and 36 cities in 21 countries. With the fleet now comprising 12 narrow-bodied and 10 wide-bodied aircraft, the airline is positioned to increase its seat capacity on key routes.
SriLankan Airlines Continues to Strengthen International Connectivity
The inaugural flight of the new Airbus A320 is scheduled for December 29, 2023, bound for the Maldives, following its customization and branding. This addition to the fleet represents a strategic step for SriLankan Airlines in enhancing its service offerings and operational capacity amid a challenging year for the aviation industry.