Mr. Richard Vaisvila, Lead Engineer – Airport Operations Engineering, Commercial Airplanes, The Boeing Company, and Mr. Jins Sebastian, Flight Operations Engineer (Performance), Flight Operations Department, Emirates Airlines, met with Captain Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation & Chief Executive Officer, Monday (14) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) to discuss the potential introduction of Boeing 777-9 operations by Emirates to Sri Lanka.
The meeting was also attended by Capt. Lasantha Dahanayake, Deputy Director General – Flight Safety Regulation (DDG/FSR), and Mr. Dushyantha Ratnayake, Director – Aircraft Registration and Airworthiness.
The discussions marked the initial stage of engagement on the regulatory, airworthiness, airport and operational requirements associated with facilitating the Boeing 777-9 in Sri Lanka. The parties discussed the necessary steps and applicable requirements that would need to be considered should Emirates proceed with operating the aircraft to Sri Lanka.
The Boeing 777-9, the largest member of Boeing’s next generation 777X family, has been developed for long-haul international operations and incorporates advanced technologies designed to improve fuel efficiency, operational performance and passenger comfort.
The aircraft is also equipped with folding wingtips, a distinctive feature designed to allow its large wingspan to be accommodated within existing airport gate and taxiway requirements while providing aerodynamic benefits during flight. The aircraft represents the latest development of Boeing’s established 777 family.
CAASL conveyed its positive intention to facilitate access to and operation of the Boeing 777-9 in Sri Lanka, subject to the successful completion of all applicable regulatory, airworthiness, operational and safety requirements.
The potential introduction of the Boeing 777-9 by Emirates would further enhance Sri Lanka’s capability to accommodate next-generation wide-body aircraft and contribute to strengthening the country’s international air connectivity.
CAASL remains committed to engaging with leading international airlines and aircraft manufacturers to support the continued development of Sri Lanka’s aviation sector while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and aviation safety.
