Could Air India Express's Bold Expansion Redefine the Skies?

Air India Express is making headlines with a bold step in its evolution, igniting curiosity and excitement in the aviation world. In just over three years since privatization, the airline has not only doubled its fleet but also redefined its service offerings and market reach. Let’s dive into the vibrant story behind this transformative journey.

The 100th Aircraft Milestone

Air India Express has reached a landmark achievement by inducting its 100th aircraft—a modern, fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 adorned with stunning ‘Chittara’ tail art. Inspired by Karnataka’s traditional mural painting, the design isn’t just an aesthetic marvel; it symbolizes a blend of heritage and modernity. Flagged off by Managing Director Aloke Singh at Bengaluru’s bustling Kempegowda International Airport, this milestone flight took off on the Bengaluru–Hindon route, marking another feather in the airline’s cap.

Sky-High Growth: Doubling the Fleet in Two Years

The pace of expansion is nothing short of remarkable. Since joining the Tata group in January 2022, Air India Express has grown from a modest fleet of 26 Boeing 737 NGs and 28 A320 aircraft to an impressive lineup of 100 aircraft. With plans to operate over 500 daily flights across 54 destinations in India, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia by month-end, the airline is scaling new heights with an unmatched frequency and reach.

Innovative Routes and Expanding Horizons

Air India Express isn’t just increasing the number of flights—it’s revolutionizing its route network. By adding vibrant new destinations such as Bangkok, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, Hindon, Jammu, Patna, Phuket, and Port Blair (Sri Vijaya Puram), the airline is catering to an ever-growing and diverse traveler base. Notably, Hindon (Ghaziabad, Delhi NCR) now joins Bengaluru as a hub, making Air India Express the first and only airline to serve two airports in the National Capital Region. This strategic move is paving the way for more robust regional connectivity and catering to the emerging markets in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.

Enhancing Passenger Experience: More Than Just a Flight

Recognizing that the journey is as important as the destination, Air India Express has introduced a suite of passenger-centric services:

• Gourmair Hot Meals: Savory options that elevate the in-flight dining experience.
• Xpress Biz Seats: Designed for comfort, catering especially to the business traveler.
• Upgraded Loyalty Programme: Rewarding frequent flyers with more benefits and flexibility.
• XpressHolidays: Curated travel packages that combine flights, stays, and unique experiences.

Under the ‘Fly As You Are’ brand proposition, travelers can tailor their journey with four distinct fare options, including the exclusive XpressLite—India’s special fare for those carrying only cabin baggage.

Charting New Horizons

Managing Director Aloke Singh encapsulates the sentiment perfectly:

“In just over three years since privatization, we integrated and merged the LCC airlines, while scaling up rapidly with a modern and fuel-efficient fleet... Today, we have a formidable presence in the India market focused towards tier 2 and tier 3 cities, the emerging hotspots of the economy, playing a pivotal role in the next stage of India’s aviation growth story.”

This strategic vision not only repositions Air India Express as a formidable competitor in the market but also signals a broader shift in how regional connectivity and modern aviation can coexist.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Aviation

With its bold expansion strategy, innovative services, and relentless focus on customer experience, Air India Express is setting the stage for a new era in aviation. The induction of its 100th aircraft is not merely a numerical milestone—it’s a declaration of intent to lead the future of air travel, making flying an engaging, customized, and culturally rich experience.

As the airline continues to soar higher and reach new destinations, passengers can look forward to a journey that’s as dynamic and spirited as the landscapes it connects. The skies are indeed the limit, and Air India Express is ready to redefine air travel for a new generation.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR) is making headlines with an innovative, first-of-its-kind sensory room designed to support neurodivergent passengers and anyone with sensory sensitivities. This thoughtfully crafted space, nestled near the 080 International Lounge on Level 4 of Terminal 2, is part of the airport’s broader mission to create an inclusive, stress-free travel experience.

A Breath of Fresh Air in Air Travel

Airports are known for their hustle and bustle—bright lights, constant announcements, security checks, and crowded spaces. These factors can easily overwhelm travelers, especially those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), anxiety disorders, PTSD, and other sensory or mental health conditions. Recognizing this, BLR Airport has taken a giant leap towards inclusivity by offering a tranquil escape in the form of a sensory room.

Behind the Design: Science and Compassion

Grounded in Research and Innovation

The sensory room is a product of collaborative efforts and backed by behavioral science and occupational therapy research. Studies suggest that even a short period—15 to 30 minutes—in a calming environment can help alleviate overwhelming sensations and boost emotional well-being. This space is designed to help travelers reset, relax, and regulate their sensory experiences before embarking on their journey.

Expert Collaboration for Maximum Impact

Developed in partnership with Incluzza, a leading voice in disability inclusion, the sensory room is a showcase of thoughtful design and proactive accessibility. Dipesh Sutariya, Chairman & Managing Director of EnAble India group, highlights this initiative as a testament to BIAL’s deep commitment to ensuring that every passenger has a memorable and comfortable experience.

A Closer Look at the Sensory Experience

Multi-Sensory Features

The room offers a blend of visual, tactile, auditory, and movement-based stimuli to cater to diverse sensory needs:

• Ambient Lighting: With elements like a bubble tube, galaxy projector, and LED cubes, the room creates dynamic visual patterns that help reduce sensory overload.
• Artistic Touches: A calming art mural featuring organic abstract blobs is designed to enhance emotional well-being.
• Interactive Installations: Floor and wall projections, a ball pool, and a sensory toy station invite playful engagement and cognitive stimulation.
• Therapeutic Elements: Items such as a crash pad, weighted blanket, and therapy mats are provided to help with emotional regulation and relaxation.
• Tactile and Auditory Enhancements: Features like an optical curtain, infinity mirror, tactile wall panels, white noise machine, and sound system create a harmonized environment for focused relaxation.
• Additional Amenities: A balance board, lava lamp, and aroma diffuser contribute to reducing stress and enhancing concentration.

A Step Toward Inclusive Air Travel

Hari Marar, MD and CEO of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), encapsulated the sentiment behind this initiative:

“We are committed to building an inclusive and passenger-friendly airport. BLR Airport has consistently aimed at offering the latest innovations... The addition of the sensory room aligns with our mission to create a seamless and stress-free experience for every traveler.”

This new sensory room is not just an amenity; it represents a shift towards making air travel accessible and comfortable for everyone. By integrating the latest in sensory research and innovative design, BLR Airport is setting a new benchmark for customer experience and inclusivity.

Dive Deeper Into the Experience

Curious to see the sensory room in action? Check out this insightful video that showcases the thoughtful design and features of the space:

Watch the Sensory Room Experience

Looking Ahead

The launch of this sensory room is a clear indication that accessibility is becoming a central tenet in the aviation industry. As airports continue to embrace innovation, the hope is that more such initiatives will follow, ensuring every traveler—regardless of their sensory needs—can enjoy a relaxed and enriching journey.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru is not just a gateway to destinations; it’s a gateway to a kinder, more inclusive future in air travel.

SpiceJet, one of India’s longstanding budget carriers with 19 years in the skies, is now facing a storm of legal and financial challenges. The airline finds itself at the center of multiple insolvency petitions, threatening to ground its ambitions amid mounting debts and disputes with creditors.

A Fresh Wave of Insolvency Petitions

The Legal Showdown Begins

Three Ireland-based aircraft lessors—NGF Alpha, NGF Genesis, and NGF Charlie—have stepped into the legal arena by filing insolvency pleas under Section 9 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). These lessors claim dues totaling USD 12.68 million (approximately Rs 110 crore). The filings, now slated for a hearing on April 7, 2025, are a stark indicator of the mounting pressures on SpiceJet.

A Former Pilot Joins the Fray

Adding to the complexity, a former pilot has also filed an insolvency plea. The National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) has taken notice and scheduled a separate hearing for this petition on April 15, 2025. The tribunal is currently examining whether the pilot’s claim might be barred by Section 10A of the IBC, a clause that restricts certain insolvency applications for defaults arising on or after March 25, 2020.

The Claims and Controversies

Allegations from the Lessors

The lessors allege that SpiceJet defaulted on payments related to the lease of five Boeing 737 aircraft. They have even raised serious claims involving the alleged theft of aircraft parts, including engines that were reportedly used in other planes. These allegations have only deepened the legal dispute, putting SpiceJet’s operational integrity under scrutiny.

Understanding Section 10A

Section 10A was introduced as a special provision to help companies navigate the post-lockdown economic revival. It prevents the initiation of a corporate insolvency resolution process (CIRP) for defaults incurred after March 25, 2020, for a period of one year. The ongoing discussions at the NCLT regarding the applicability of this section add another layer of complexity to SpiceJet’s predicament.

The Broader Implications for SpiceJet

A History of Legal Challenges

This is not the first time SpiceJet has found itself embroiled in legal disputes. The airline is already entangled in multiple insolvency cases involving other creditors such as vendors and additional lessors like Willis Lease, Aircastle Ireland Ltd, Wilmington, and Celestial Aviation. Despite these challenges, no final orders have been passed yet, leaving the airline in a state of limbo.

Financial Strains and the Road Ahead

The wave of insolvency petitions comes at a time when SpiceJet is already grappling with significant financial difficulties. With creditors turning to legal avenues to recover dues, the airline must navigate through these choppy waters. Settlement talks are reportedly underway, offering a glimmer of hope that a resolution might be on the horizon. However, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether SpiceJet can recalibrate its strategy and emerge stronger, or if the legal challenges will ground its journey permanently.

Conclusion: Turbulence or a Temporary Dip?

As SpiceJet faces an unprecedented legal storm, industry watchers and passengers alike are left wondering about the airline’s future. Will the carrier manage to resolve these disputes and regain its financial footing, or are these insolvency petitions the harbinger of a more troubled future? The upcoming NCLT hearings and ongoing settlement discussions will be critical in charting the next chapter in SpiceJet’s long flight history. One thing is certain—the coming weeks promise drama, legal intrigue, and high-stakes negotiations in the world of aviation finance.

SpiceJet’s story is a vivid reminder of how even long-established carriers are not immune to the complexities of modern financial and legal challenges. The outcome of these proceedings will not only impact the airline but could also set important precedents in the interpretation of insolvency laws in the aviation sector.

As one of the world’s leading SaaS providers for the global travel sector, IBS Software is setting its sights on new horizons in the Indian market. With a bold strategy to tap into the airline industry and loyalty programmes, the company is ready to transform how airlines and airports operate in one of the fastest-growing civil aviation markets in the world.

A Soaring Vision in India

Expanding Horizons

IBS Software, headquartered in Singapore and employing around 5,000 professionals, has already built an impressive portfolio of over 200 clients worldwide. Now, with India emerging as a critical growth engine in civil aviation, the company is positioning itself to play a pivotal role in the country’s rapidly evolving travel industry. In an interview with PTI on March 8, Founder and Executive Chairman V K Mathews expressed optimism about the market’s long-term potential, highlighting that while India has traditionally been cost-sensitive, the perception of IT is gradually shifting from being viewed as an expense to a strategic, value-adding asset.

Collaborations on the Horizon

Currently, IBS Software is streamlining operations for Air India—handling air cargo solutions and staff travel. The company is looking to extend its expertise further by exploring collaborations with major players like IndiGo and Akasa Air. This strategic move is not only a testament to the company’s robust suite of products tailored for the aviation and travel sectors but also a nod to India’s burgeoning demand for innovative technology solutions.

Powering Global Airlines and Beyond

An Impressive Client Roster

IBS Software’s client list reads like a who’s who of the global aviation and hospitality sectors, featuring industry giants such as Emirates, British Airways, Cathay Pacific, Lufthansa, Virgin Atlantic, Hyatt, Hilton, and even energy leaders like Chevron and ADNOC. These partnerships underscore the company’s capability to provide sophisticated, best-in-class technology solutions that help streamline complex operations—from departure control and check-in processes to cargo management and retail capabilities at airports.

Leading the Technology Charge

In a world where advancements in travel commerce and enhanced customer relationship management are vital, IBS Software’s offerings are designed to deliver superior operational efficiency. Despite a reputation for premium pricing, Mathews maintains that aligning these high-quality solutions with market expectations is key. As economies evolve, the focus is expected to shift from mere cost-cutting to embracing value differentiation—a trend that IBS Software is well-equipped to drive.

Loyalty Programs: The Next Frontier

Building Lasting Connections

Loyalty programmes are a cornerstone of modern customer engagement in the aviation sector. When asked about the potential for loyalty initiatives in India, Mathews responded enthusiastically, noting that this area is ripe for exploration. With consumers increasingly seeking personalized travel experiences, IBS Software’s next step into loyalty solutions could help airlines build stronger, more enduring relationships with their passengers.

Tailoring Solutions for Local Markets

India’s unique market dynamics—characterized by a keen focus on price sensitivity—mean that technology providers must innovate in ways that balance cost with high-value service. By leveraging its deep industry expertise, IBS Software aims to deliver loyalty programmes that not only attract and retain customers but also enhance the overall travel experience, driving long-term revenue growth for airlines and airports alike.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Travel

A Two-Decade Growth Perspective

While IBS Software has seen tremendous success in many regions, India (alongside China) remains an area of untapped potential. Mathews is optimistic about India’s substantial growth prospects over the next two decades, driven by expanding domestic fleets and an increasing network of airlines. The company’s commitment to exploring every facet of travel technology—from air cargo operations to comprehensive retail capabilities at airports—ensures that it will remain at the forefront of the industry’s evolution.

Embracing Industry Trends

Key trends such as the need for integrated technology systems, innovative travel commerce solutions, and advanced customer relationship management are shaping the future of the global travel sector. With its extensive array of tailored products, IBS Software is uniquely positioned to help the industry navigate these changes, providing the technological backbone necessary for airlines and airports to thrive in an increasingly competitive market.

Conclusion

IBS Software’s strategic expansion into India’s airline and loyalty programme sectors marks an exciting chapter in the company’s journey. By combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of market dynamics, the company is not only poised to capitalize on India’s rapid growth but also to redefine the standards of excellence in global travel. As the skies open up to new opportunities, IBS Software is ready to soar to even greater heights—transforming challenges into opportunities and setting new benchmarks in the aviation industry.

Feel the excitement? This is just the beginning of a journey where technology meets travel innovation, creating experiences that truly fly high!

When SriLankan Airlines teamed up with Telangana Tourism, the skies—and hearts—were set alight with anticipation. Fourteen esteemed Sri Lankan travel agents and tour operators embarked on a familiarization (FAM) tour that turned a routine trip into a delightful journey through centuries of history, vibrant culture, and modern-day thrills.

A Cultural Odyssey: From Buddhist Roots to Royal Forts

Telangana’s rich tapestry of history was on full display as delegates wandered through ancient Buddhist heritage sites and marveled at architectural gems. The tour kicked off with a visit to the Buddhavanam Project, celebrated as the world's largest Buddhist heritage theme park. This vibrant site offered a glimpse into the spiritual legacy of the region, inviting visitors to pause, reflect, and snap that perfect Instagram-worthy moment.

Adding to the cultural allure were stops at Nagarjunakonda and the Ramappa Temple—both recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding historical significance. These sites, steeped in tradition and architectural brilliance, served as a tangible connection to the past, celebrating a legacy that continues to inspire awe.

Modern Marvels and Playful Escapes

Telangana isn’t just about relics of the past; it’s also a land where contemporary fun meets ancient charm. The itinerary led the enthusiastic group to Nelakondapally and Phanigiri, where local narratives and scenic beauty combined to offer a refreshing break from the everyday. History buff or adventure seeker, there was something in store for everyone.

No tour would be complete without a dash of adrenaline. The exploration of the historic Warangal Fort, a stalwart built by the mighty Kakatiya dynasty, offered a peek into the region’s royal heritage. And when it was time to unwind, the journey took a lighthearted turn at the Laknavaram Islands and Wonderla Adventure Park—the latter promising heart-pounding rides and playful escapades that left everyone with smiles and a few amusing stories to tell.

A Bustling Blend of Heritage and Modernity in Hyderabad

The adventure culminated in the bustling city of Hyderabad. Known for its famed shopping circuits and vibrant urban life, the city offered a delightful contrast to the historical sites. Here, delegates experienced the modern pulse of Telangana—where street-side eateries, colorful bazaars, and contemporary cultural hubs mixed seamlessly with historical landmarks.

A Promising Future: Strengthening Ties Between Two Rich Cultures

This FAM tour was more than a sightseeing itinerary—it was a bridge between two culturally rich regions. The collaboration between SriLankan Airlines and Telangana Tourism has sown the seeds for future ventures, promising increased tourism and deeper cultural exchanges. As travel agents returned home, they carried not only souvenirs but also a renewed sense of connection and inspiration.

Telangana, with its blend of ancient charm and modern zest, has set the stage for a vibrant future where the skies of Sri Lanka and the heart of Telangana meet. With journeys like these, every traveler is invited to experience a story that spans centuries—a story that is as engaging and dynamic as the lands themselves.

Pack your bags, fasten your seatbelts, and get ready to explore a destination where every corner tells a story. The adventure is just beginning, and the best tales are waiting to be discovered!

In celebration of Women’s Day, SriLankan Airlines shines a spotlight on the trailblazing women who are transforming the aviation industry. From the hangar to the boardroom, these leaders are redefining what it means to excel in a traditionally male-dominated field. Their journeys reflect a vibrant blend of passion, resilience, and innovation—qualities that continue to redefine aviation in a uniquely SriLankan way.

Stephanie Kinson: Breaking Barriers in the Hangar

A Journey of Passion and Purpose

Stephanie Kinson’s fascination with the magic of big jets began in her childhood. What started as a simple wonder quickly evolved into a profound passion for aviation. Beginning her career as an Aircraft Maintenance trainee at SriLankan Airlines in 2011, Stephanie swiftly moved up the ranks. With over 12 years of experience under her belt, she now excels as an Aircraft Engineering Instructor, mentoring everyone from fresh apprentices to seasoned engineers.

Her dynamic journey isn’t confined to the technical realm. Beyond the hangar, Stephanie has graced the runway as a model, earning titles like Miss Working Girl and Miss Tourism World. Now a proud mother of two toddlers, she embodies the art of balancing a demanding career with a fulfilling personal life—all while inspiring the next generation of aviation professionals.

Q&A with Stephanie Kinson

Preparing the Next Generation

Q: "In light of continuous technological advancements, what core skills do you believe are essential for upcoming aircraft engineers, and how do you incorporate these into your training programs?"

A:

"Contrary to the common belief that knowledge and skills are the only key elements, I believe having the right attitude is life changing. The identity of a generation will define their values, social norms and eventually their attitude, which will greatly influence the environment that is created in a classroom. I strongly believe if an individual has excellent self-discipline, consistency and authenticity he/she will be able to mold himself/herself to adapt the characteristics of an excellent engineer in the years to come.

The biggest challenge I have faced as a trainer is when your students come from different generations and even cultures, which requires me to adapt and tailor my approach to create the perfect learning environment. Mentoring my students, collaborating with them and motivating them on their student journey helps them to stay focused whilst championing their mindset to make them industry-ready at the end of their training program, after all, we are indeed training the next generation of aviation professionals."

Integrating Real-World Challenges

Q: "How do you bring real-world industry challenges into your classroom to ensure that your students are well-prepared for the dynamic nature of aircraft maintenance and engineering?"

A:

"One of the biggest industry challenges we face is the continuous development of technology leading to regulatory and procedural changes and the utmost necessity of staying up to date so you still remain at the top of your game.

Maintenance Training organizations work closely with manufacturers allowing us to stay updated on the latest developments. Additionally, input from cockpit crew enables us to get a fresh perspective on how systems behave in flight. We also touch base with experienced aircraft engineers time to time to help keep us abreast on the maintenance perspective. Sometimes we ourselves need to ‘unlearn’ and ‘relearn’ things. Apart from undergoing recurrent training, creating a professional mindset allows me to form meaningful interactions and improve my networking skills enhancing my communication channels: this serves as an invaluable tool which helps me navigate in a fast-paced environment.

Portraying this professionalism, by bringing in my very own experiences and challenges I faced as an aircraft technician, discussing the latest air crash investigations, hosting frequent aircraft visits and creating the frame of mind that this is a journey of continuous learning and professional growth has been one of the elements I mirror throughout my training."

Evolving Training Methods

Q: "What transformative changes have you observed in aircraft engineering over the years, and how have these shifts influenced the way you approach training and mentoring new talent?"

A:

"Aircraft Maintenance has witnessed a major shift in terms of maintenance procedures: for example, aircraft structures are leaning towards composite based leading to more complicated methods of damage control, advanced operational integration of aircraft systems leading to complex troubleshooting mechanisms, maintenance work cards transitioning to entirely software dependent programs: making digital literacy essential, not forgetting the increasing demand for multiskilled engineers.

In addition to the demands of advanced technical training to meet these changes, soft skills training is an avenue that has become highly demanding over the years. As organizations include multigenerational groups of employees, challenges in streamlining mindsets to achieve organization goals have been a rising concern based on feedback we have received from multiple sources.

Even training organizations have witnessed a transformative change in training methods shifting into multimedia-based training, with the aid of tools such as AI and more environmentally friendly methods. In my perspective, we need to completely get rid of the table and chair concept and have more student centric approaches involving hands-on.

Most of our training programs have a considerable percentage of training dedicated to ‘on-the-job training’. This allows us to expose our students to the real-life working environment which makes a significant impact on creating the awareness required. This method opens up mentorship opportunities with practicing aircraft engineers assisting in the development of skill and engagement."

Maria Sathasivam: Steering Innovation On Ground and In the Sky

A Visionary Leader in Product Development

Maria Sathasivam stands as a testament to visionary leadership in the aviation industry. With over 25 years of experience, she has played an instrumental role in shaping SriLankan Airlines' product offerings. As Manager of Product Development, Maria is responsible for evaluating and enhancing everything from inflight experiences to ground and digital services.

Her innovative drive and strategic mindset have positioned SriLankan Airlines as a trendsetter, evident in award-winning campaigns like the SriLankan flavours campaign, which clinched the 2024 IFSA Best Inflight Food or Beverage Innovation Award.

Her career is punctuated with milestones—from doubling the frequent flyer membership through ingenious strategies at FlySmiLes to achieving global recognition in health and safety audits. Maria’s work underscores the importance of agility, innovation, and the power of customer feedback in a fast-evolving market.

Q&A with Maria Sathasivam

Customer-Centric Innovation

Q: "Could you share an example of how customer feedback has directly influenced a new product or service at SriLankan Airlines, and what that experience taught you about staying agile in a dynamic market?"

A:

"As a customer-oriented airline, customer feedback plays a crucial role in shaping our new product development and service enhancement strategies. For example, when customer sentiment towards air travel was at an all-time low post-pandemic due to heightened concerns about safety protocols, travel restrictions and other changes in service delivery, we regained passenger confidence by reinforcing the message that SriLankan Airlines was air travel-safe, backed by insights from customer feedback.

By partnering with the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX) and SimpliFlying, we conducted a fully independent audit of our health and safety measures for both passengers and operating crew. This audit covered 58 touchpoints in the customer journey and confirmed that SriLankan Airlines exceeded expectations in areas such as onboard and on ground safety protocol, hygiene and social distancing procedures. As a result, SriLankan was awarded the Platinum Standard in January 2021, and was soon upgraded to the highest attainable Diamond Standard.

This is just one example of how listening to our passengers has helped us stay agile and responsive, which is key to staying competitive, relevant and resilient in a rapidly changing industry."

Digital Transformation Impact

Q: "With the rapid evolution of digital technologies, how do you see digital transformation reshaping the airline experience, and what initiatives are you most excited about implementing?"

A:

"Digital technologies have transformed the travel experience for passengers, making everything from flight bookings and purchasing value added services to check-in and customer support, more personalized and seamless. The benefits aren’t just for travelers, though; airlines are also leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. The rise of Artificial intelligence (AI), in particular, has enabled airlines to personalize services like never before.

At SriLankan Airlines, we have been quick to embrace these advancements. Our recently launched AI-powered chatbot, ‘Yaana,’ has revolutionized customer support by providing instant assistance and reliable information across a wide range of passenger inquiries. We were also the first airline in South Asia to introduce self-check-in kiosks and a bag drop facility for international travel.

With contactless technology becoming increasingly popular, we are exploring several new enhancements in that area. We are especially excited to introduce wireless in-flight entertainment on select narrow-body aircraft, allowing passengers to stream entertainment directly on their own devices. Beyond convenience, this technology is a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional seatback screens. We are also in discussions to bring high-speed satellite connectivity onboard later this year."

Celebrating a Legacy of Innovation and Inspiration

The stories of Stephanie Kinson and Maria Sathasivam illustrate the dynamic spirit of SriLankan Airlines—a blend of technical mastery, innovative thinking, and heartfelt leadership. Their contributions are not only elevating the standards of aviation but also inspiring countless women to pursue their dreams with determination and creativity.

On this Women’s Day, we celebrate these trailblazing women who are continuously setting new benchmarks, nurturing the next generation of aviation professionals, and ensuring that every flight carries with it a story of courage, innovation, and hope. Their journeys remind us that the skies are not the limit—it's only the beginning.

So, as we honor the past, present, and future of SriLankan aviation, we invite you to take inspiration from these remarkable women. They are, after all, the true power behind the wings that soar high and beyond.