Soaring Through Time: A SriLankan Sojourn in Telangana

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.

India’s aviation landscape is on the brink of a transformation as the new Navi Mumbai Airport prepares for its May opening. Spearheaded by billionaire Gautam Adani, this state-of-the-art facility is poised to become a major aviation hub—designed not only to ease congestion at the current Mumbai airport but also to set new benchmarks in passenger experience and operational efficiency.

A Strategic Move by Low-Cost Carriers

Leading the Change

India’s largest airline, IndiGo, is at the forefront of this shift, planning to relocate a significant portion of its operations to Navi Mumbai. Alongside IndiGo, other low-cost carriers like Tata Group’s Air India Express, SpiceJet, and Akasa are in advanced discussions about transitioning their operations to the new airport. This coordinated move aims to streamline domestic travel and boost overall connectivity in one of the country’s most critical air travel markets.

Negotiating the New Norm

Airlines are in active talks with the Adani Group to secure the most favorable slots and incentives on airport fees. These incentives are vital to ensuring competitive fares, especially as the new facility might initially face connectivity challenges compared to the well-established old airport. Discussions are reportedly focused on a phased shift—with domestic operations set to transition between April and June and international flights launching by August.

Mega-Infrastructure Meets Modern Ambitions

Building an Aero City

The Navi Mumbai project is not just an airport—it is a $2.1 billion landmark infrastructure venture that envisions an “aero city” around the terminal. This comprehensive development is designed to diversify revenue streams beyond aviation by creating a bustling hub of commercial and leisure activities, potentially positioning Navi Mumbai alongside global giants like Dubai, London, and Singapore.

Expansion and Future Capacity

Initially featuring one terminal with an annual capacity of 20 million passengers, the facility has the potential to scale up operations to handle as many as 90 million passengers over the next decade. This flexibility is critical for meeting future demand as India’s domestic travel market continues its rapid expansion. Early test flights have already validated the airport’s operational readiness, with IndiGo’s validation flight in December paving the way for further trial runs, including Air India’s scheduled test for dual-aisle aircraft geared toward international operations.

Bridging the Connectivity Gap

Overcoming Challenges

While the Navi Mumbai Airport is set to revolutionize air travel in the region, it faces a significant challenge: the lack of high-speed transportation links between the new facility and Mumbai’s existing airport. This connectivity gap could affect passenger convenience, potentially swaying fliers back to the old airport.

Future Prospects

To address these concerns, plans are in place for a dedicated metro line connecting the two airports. However, this solution is still in its planning stages and may take a few years to materialize. Until then, the success of the new airport will largely depend on how effectively airlines and the Adani Group manage these logistical hurdles through innovative scheduling and attractive fare incentives.

Navigating High Stakes and Controversies

The Final Test for the Adani Group

As the final phase of this megaproject unfolds, it represents more than just an infrastructural upgrade—it is a litmus test for the Adani Group’s ability to manage high-stakes projects amid scrutiny. Recently, the group and its leadership faced bribery allegations from the US Department of Justice, accusations that cast a shadow over their ambitious ventures. Gautam Adani and his nephew, Sagar Adani, have firmly denied any wrongdoing, and the upcoming phase will further determine the conglomerate’s credibility as a key player in India’s infrastructure evolution.

A Future Taking Flight

The launch of Navi Mumbai Airport signals a new era for the aviation industry in India. With low-cost carriers leading the charge, the project promises enhanced connectivity, modern infrastructure, and a transformative “aero city” that could redefine air travel in one of the world’s busiest regions. As the Adani Group navigates both logistical challenges and external controversies, all eyes will be on Navi Mumbai as it prepares to take flight into a promising, albeit challenging, future.

With Inputs from Economic Times

Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, Sri Lanka’s largest hospitality group, has made a bold strategic move that might just redefine the Indian outbound travel market. With the recent appointment of Gaurav Arora as the Director of Global Sales for India, the company is poised to drive innovative sales strategies and strengthen its foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic travel markets.

A Strategic Appointment at a Pivotal Time

On 3 March 2025, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts announced the appointment of Gaurav Arora to lead its global sales efforts for India. This decision comes as the hospitality giant continues to expand its presence not only in Sri Lanka but also in the Maldives. Notably, the group’s portfolio includes 17 properties, among them Sri Lanka’s first integrated resort, Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams Sri Lanka.

Expertise That Speaks Volumes

Gaurav Arora brings over two decades of experience in international hospitality sales, having steered outbound business for top-tier hotel brands like Shangri-La, Hilton, and Marriott International. His most recent role at Enhance Hospitality—a luxury hotel representation firm—saw him successfully managing leading international brands in the Indian market. His profound expertise in sales strategy, market expansion, and partnership development positions him as a key driver for Cinnamon’s ambitious growth plans in India.

Strengthening Cinnamon’s Presence in India

A Market with Tremendous Potential

India is currently one of the top source markets for tourist arrivals, making it a critical focus for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts. The company has already established a strong global sales presence in major cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai. This strategic positioning allows Cinnamon to effectively engage both trade and consumer segments, while also nurturing key partnerships within the industry.

Driving Revenue Across Key Segments

In his new role, Gaurav Arora will be responsible for:

• Corporate Sales: Cultivating business travel opportunities.
• Leisure Travel: Enhancing the guest experience and boosting individual traveler engagement.
• MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events): Capturing opportunities in a segment known for its high revenue potential.

His appointment is a clear testament to Cinnamon’s commitment to not only solidifying its brand presence in India but also driving sustainable, long-term growth.

Industry Voices: A Glimpse of Optimism

Radhey Tawar, the Chief Commercial Officer of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts, expressed enthusiasm about the new appointment, stating, “We are delighted to welcome Gaurav to Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts at a pivotal time to support us in our efforts to expand our sales presence in the Indian market – our top source market for tourist arrivals currently.”

Gaurav Arora himself noted, “I am excited to join Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts as the Indian outbound travel to Sri Lanka and the Maldives is experiencing significant growth. I look forward to leveraging my expertise to expand our brand presence and to ensure strategic alignment to the success of Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in India.”

Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Hospitality

Gaurav Arora’s appointment is more than just a leadership change—it signals a strategic push towards capturing the vast opportunities that lie within the Indian market. With a dedicated team already in place across major Indian cities and a leader renowned for his industry expertise, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts is set to redefine its engagement with Indian travelers. As the company continues to innovate and expand, both the hospitality sector and travel enthusiasts have much to look forward to in the coming years.

Could this bold move be the catalyst for a new era in Indian hospitality? Only time will tell, but the future certainly looks promising for Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts and its growing base of international travelers.

India’s aviation landscape is undergoing a dynamic transformation as sustainability measures take center stage. With groundbreaking regulatory reforms, record-breaking domestic traffic, and cutting-edge technologies on the horizon, the country is charting a course toward a future-ready and greener aviation industry.

A New Regulatory Era: From the Aircraft Act to Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak

In December 2024, India bid farewell to the century-old Aircraft Act of 1934 and ushered in the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak. This modern legislation streamlines aircraft design, manufacturing, operations, and sales, while introducing a second appeal mechanism for disputes and penalties. By eliminating longstanding ambiguities—especially regarding the roles of key bodies like the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)—the new Act is set to boost business ease, attract investments, and reinforce sustainability efforts across the sector.

Soaring Domestic Demand: The Rise of Short-Haul Travel

On November 17, 2024, a record-setting day in domestic aviation unfolded when 505,412 passengers took to the skies in a single day across over 3,100 flights. This surge not only underscores India’s booming air travel market but also highlights the strain on current infrastructure, particularly on short-haul routes. With major metros and Tier-I cities already well-connected, the focus is now shifting towards underserved ultra-short-haul destinations.

Innovative Solutions: Ultra-Short Hybrid Aircraft and eVTOLs

To bridge the gap in short-haul connectivity, industry leaders like Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One, are championing advanced solutions. He notes that “Sustainability measures will add impetus to Indian aviation's future-ready expansion.” Options such as ultra-short hybrid-electric aircraft and electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOLs) are emerging as ideal candidates to revolutionize short-distance travel. These technologies promise to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and offer more sustainable and efficient travel alternatives.

Advanced Air Mobility: Crafting the Future of Air Travel

Recognizing the potential of these emerging technologies, the DGCA has teamed up with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and other global authorities. Their collaboration aims to develop comprehensive regulatory frameworks for advanced air mobility (AAM). Initiatives like the Advanced Air Mobility Study Group are already working on recommendations to facilitate the integration of air taxis into India’s busy airspace—an essential step toward meeting the nation’s Net Zero emissions target by 2050.

Green Partnerships: Fueling the Sustainability Movement

Sustainability in aviation isn’t just about new aircraft and regulatory reforms; it’s also about rethinking the fuel that powers these journeys. In a move that signals strong industry commitment to a greener future, aerospace giant Boeing has announced plans to partner with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL). This collaboration will explore scalable production methods for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), implementing strict sustainability standards across the entire supply chain. Such initiatives align with the broader Green Aviation Policy, reinforcing India’s pledge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and foster long-term environmental stewardship.

Charting the Course Ahead

As India’s aviation sector takes off into a sustainable future, the blend of modern regulatory frameworks, technological innovations, and strategic global partnerships is setting the stage for a transformative era. By embracing ultra-short hybrid aircraft, eVTOLs, and advanced air mobility solutions, alongside robust SAF initiatives, the country is not only addressing current travel demands but is also poised to become a global leader in green aviation.

The sky is not the limit—it’s just the beginning.

SriLankan Airlines is set to redefine the in-flight experience by introducing wireless in-flight entertainment on select narrow-body A320 aircraft. This innovative step allows passengers to stream their favorite content directly to their own devices, ushering in a new era of personalized travel.

Seamless Connectivity and Personalization

Passengers on select short-haul flights will soon enjoy a streamlined entertainment experience without the traditional seatback screens. Utilizing the airline’s Wi-Fi network, SkyPlus, and powered by the cutting-edge wireless streaming solution Everhub, travelers can easily access an extensive on-demand library. Whether using a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, the transition from conventional entertainment systems to a more modern, wireless setup ensures that everyone stays connected and entertained throughout the journey.

Award-Winning Content at Your Fingertips

SriLankan Airlines’ commitment to exceptional passenger experience is evident in its meticulously curated content library. From the latest Hollywood blockbusters to regional favorites, the system offers a wide range of movies, TV shows, and over 100 handpicked audio albums spanning diverse genres—including action, comedy, drama, adventure, kids’ entertainment, musicals, and sports. This premium selection not only enhances the travel experience but also reflects the airline’s dedication to maintaining its award-winning status. In fact, the onboard entertainment system recently earned the prestigious 2025 APEX Best Entertainment Award in Central/Southern Asia, based on certified passenger feedback.

A Greener, Lighter Experience

Embracing wireless technology isn’t just about enhanced passenger convenience; it’s also a stride towards sustainability. The lightweight design of the wireless system contributes to improved fuel efficiency, aligning with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of air travel. By eliminating the need for heavier, fixed seatback screens, SriLankan Airlines is making a significant step towards an eco-friendlier operation without compromising on the quality of in-flight entertainment.

What This Means for Passengers

Maria Sathasivam, Manager of Product Development at SriLankan Airlines, encapsulated the sentiment behind the upgrade, stating, “We are excited to make our award-winning onboard entertainment content even more accessible to our loyal customers.” This initiative is not only a testament to the airline’s forward-thinking approach but also ensures that passengers experience greater convenience, personalization, and engagement during their journey. With content that caters to every taste and the flexibility to watch on personal devices, the modern traveler can now tailor their in-flight experience like never before.

Looking Ahead

As wireless in-flight entertainment gains momentum globally, SriLankan Airlines’ latest upgrade places it at the forefront of innovation in the aviation industry. With a focus on passenger experience, sustainability, and technological advancement, the airline is poised to set new standards in the industry. For travelers, this means a more enjoyable, eco-conscious, and personalized journey every time they fly.

With the launch of this state-of-the-art wireless system, SriLankan Airlines invites passengers to experience the future of in-flight entertainment. Is your next flight ready to be transformed?