The CASP-AP National Recurrent Inspector Workshop was successfully conducted at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) from 21st to 24th April 2025. This event brought together aviation security professionals from across the Asia-Pacific region.
The workshop was attended by eight international participants representing Bhutan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, along with Aviation Security inspectors from CAASL.
The sessions were led by Mr. Tony Blackiston, Programme Coordinator and Senior Aviation Security Advisor of CASP-AP, and Ms. Lita Lee, Training and Capacity Building Officer of CASP-AP.
The workshop aimed to enhance the knowledge and skills of Aviation Security inspectors and foster regional collaboration in aviation security.
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The 32nd Steering Committee Meeting of COSCAP - South Asia (Cooperative Development of Operational Safety and Continuing Airworthiness Program – South Asia), an organization established to promote safety in civil aviation, commenced today (22nd April) in New Delhi, India.
Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sagara Kotakadeniya, the Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of Sri Lanka Civil Aviation Authority, currently holds the Chairmanship of COSCAP-SA.
The Steering Committee is led by a Chairperson elected from among the SC Members, who serves for a term of two consecutive years and presides over the annual meetings. Sri Lanka’s DGCA was elected as Chairperson at the 31st Steering Committee Meeting, held in Bhutan last year.
Established in 1997, COSCAP-SA has played a vital role in enhancing the safety of civil aviation across the South Asian region. The Steering Committee is responsible for guiding the program’s initiatives, which aim to improve aviation safety throughout South Asia.
In addition to member states, the meeting was attended by representatives from Airbus, Boeing, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), and the Civil Aviation Authorities of the United Kingdom (CAA-UK) and France (DGCA-France).
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The 23rd Meeting of the Asia Pacific Regional Aviation Safety Team (APRAST/23) held at Bangkok, Thailand, 07th to 11th April 2025, with representing of all Asia Pacific Regional States and International Organizations related to Civil Aviation including ICAO, FAA, EASA, IATA and CANSO.
This meeting serves as a valuable opportunity for participants to learn from one another, address emerging challenges, and work collectively toward creating a safer aviation environment across the region and serves as a critical platform for aviation safety professionals in the region of Asia-Pacific to collaborate, share insights, and drive improvements in Aviation Safety.
The primary agenda of this year’s meeting consisted of the following activities and discussions of papers by two working groups where CAASL contributed tremendously.
- Review and Update of APRAST Activities
- RASG-APAC/14 Decisions and Conclusions
- Review of the RASG-APAC Annual Work Programme 2024-2025
- Fostering a Positive Safety Culture
Their involvement in APRAST/23 will help strengthen international collaboration and also will contribute to the implementation of key safety initiatives in international forums where all Asia-Pacific Regional States including China, Australia, and also the USA, all International Aviation Organizations and major Aircraft Industries including Airbus and Boeing join hands together to achieve the utmost common goal which is the Flight Safety.
Capt. Daminda Rambukwella, Deputy Director General (Flight Safety Regulation) and Civil Aviation Inspector, Mr. Isuru Sarathchandra of CAASL participated for this event.
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Marking a significant advancement in Sri Lanka’s Aviation Sector, the Aeronautical Information Management (AIM) Sri Lanka Team proudly launched the 04th Edition of the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Sri Lanka and unveiled the newly developed AIM Sri Lanka website today, April 10, at a special ceremony held at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake.
The event celebrated the dedication and collaborative efforts of the AIM Sri Lanka team in ensuring the continued enhancement of aviation safety and efficiency through accurate, timely, and comprehensive aeronautical information services.
In a symbolic gesture, Mrs. Nishani Cooray, Chief Manager of the AIM Unit, presented the first official copy of the 04th Edition of the AIP to Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sagara Kotakadeniya, Director General of Civil Aviation.
The event was graced by Air Chief Marshal (Retd.) H. D. Abeywickrema, Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited (AASL), along with senior officials from AASL and the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).
This milestone not only reflects Sri Lanka's commitment to aligning with international standards and best practices but also enhances the nation's role in regional and global aviation navigation and safety frameworks.
The newly launched AIM Sri Lanka website provides a modern, user-friendly platform offering access to critical aeronautical data and resources, reinforcing transparency and operational efficiency across aviation stakeholders.
📍 *Visit the new AIM website: www.aimsrilanka.lk
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Dr. Bimal Dias, Head of Aeromedical Services of CAASL led an insightful session on “Lifestyle Modification and Redefining the Mind”, addressing Fits Air, one of key industry partners on the importance of holistic well-being in aviation under Government’s initiative of “ Clean Sri Lanka” programme.. The session emphasized the critical role of lifestyle adjustments, mental resilience, and cognitive optimization in enhancing performance, attitude changing, safety, and overall health.
Focusing on stress management, sleep hygiene, nutrition, and mental conditioning, the discussion highlighted evidence-based strategies to help aviation professionals adapt to the demands of their roles. Special attention was given to fatigue management, cognitive sharpness, and emotional regulation—key factors in sustaining optimal performance in high-stakes environments.
Firs Air staff actively engaged in discussions on integrating these principles into organizational wellness programs, reinforcing a proactive approach to mental and physical health. The session underscored the commitment of aeromedical services to promoting a sustainable and resilient aviation workforce.
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Hon. Bimal Rathnayake, Minister of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation, Hon. Janitha Kodithuwakku, Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation and Prof. Kapila C K Perera, the Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Civil Aviation made an official visit to Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.
Mr. Sunil Jayarathna, Chairman of CAASL, Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sagara Kotakadeniya, the Director General of Civil Aviation and senior officials of CAASL attended the meeting.
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Today, we proudly mark the 22nd Anniversary of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL). For over two decades, we have provided safe, secure, and sustainable skies for Sri Lanka and beyond.
From setting high standards in aviation safety to fostering innovation and progress, CAASL remains committed to advancing the nation’s aviation industry while connecting Sri Lanka to the world.
This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without our team's dedication, our stakeholders' trust, and our community's support.
Here’s to 22 years of achievements and many more years of flying toward greater heights together!
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To mark the 80 Years of the International Civil Aviation Day 2024
The aviation industry has evolved globally within a regulatory framework established by the Chicago Convention in 1944. This convention laid the foundation for the creation of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which has played a crucial role in ensuring that air travel is safe, efficient, and well-regulated. The anniversary of ICAO marks a significant milestone, celebrating 80 years of promoting international civil aviation standards.
Sri Lanka recently commemorated both the 80th anniversary of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Civil Aviation Day. The event proudly welcomed the Hon. Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation, Eng. Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku, enhancing its significance and promise for future advancements. The celebration took place at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka and was organized by the Civil Aviation Promotion Unit of the Authority.
The event was attended by several distinguished figures, including:
- Senior Professor Kapila C.K. Perera, Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Highways, Ports, and Aviation
- Mr. Sunil Jayaratne, Chairman of the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka
- Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sagara Kotakadenya, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the Civil Aviation Authority
- Key officials from various aviation organizations, aviation companies, schoolchildren, and industry stakeholders
Several key highlights from the event included:
- Proposal to Include Aviation in School Curricula
A significant proposal has been put forward to incorporate aviation-related topics into school curricula, highlighting the importance of civil aviation and its associated subjects. This initiative aims to inspire the younger generation and educate them about the crucial role aviation plays in the global economy and national development. The proposal was officially presented by Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) Sagara Kotakadenya, the Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority, to Dr. S.A. Darshana Samaraweera, the Deputy Director General of the National Institute of Education, and Ms. Sureka Siriwardhana, the Director of the Extra Curricula Department at the Ministry of Education.
- Recognition of Senior Aviation Professional
The event also featured the recognition of Lionel Siriwannan, a 105-year-old veteran and Sri Lanka's second radio communication officer in civil aviation. His significant contributions to the aviation sector were honored with a special award presented by Hon. Minister Engineer Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku
3. Award Ceremony for the National Aviation Art Competition
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the winners of the National Aviation Art Competition, themed "The Future of Aviation Through Our Eyes." The competition featured four categories: Junior School, Senior School, Higher Education, and Open, and saw widespread participation from schoolchildren throughout the country. The awards were presented by the Hon. Minister, Engineer Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku, along with other senior officials.
As part of the event, top-performing students were awarded valuable prizes, including scholarships to the Sri Lankan Aviation Training School, which offers courses related to the aviation industry.
4. Launch of the Latest Edition of the "Guwansara Magazine”
The latest issue of the Guwansara magazine, themed around the 80th anniversary of the Chicago Convention and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), was launched during the event. This magazine serves as an important communication tool for promoting civil aviation in Sri Lanka. The magazine was presented to the Honorable Minister Engineer Janith Ruwan Kodithuwakku by the magazine's Chief Editor, Mr. Nilanth Tennakoon.
5.Recognition of Voluntary Contributions
Several organizations and individuals were acknowledged for their support in promoting civil aviation awareness and educational programs. The Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Finance (Department of Public Enterprises), Lake House, Sri Lanka Insurance, Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation, Government Information, Bank of Ceylon, Srilankan Airlines, Airport & Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, Srilankan Catering, Srilankan Aviation Collage, and other key stakeholders were honored for their contributions to this effort.
The 80th anniversary of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the celebration of International Civil Aviation Day mark an important milestone for Sri Lanka, highlighting the nation's dedication to the advancement of aviation. This event promotes collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, industry professionals, and educational institutions. Additionally, Sri Lanka is engaging younger generations through initiatives like an aviation art competition and the incorporation of aviation-related topics into school curricula, fostering interest and awareness in the field.
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The 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for the ICAO Asia and Pacific Regions was successfully held in Cebu, Philippines, from 14th to 18th October 2024 with the participation of approximately 310 number of delegates from 37 countries and 11 international organizations related to civil aviation.
Directors General from Asia-Pacific States, along with distinguished guests, including ICAO President Salvatore Sciacchitano, Secretary General Juan Carlos Salazar, ICAO Regional Director, and representatives from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), International Air Transport Association (IATA), Transport Canada, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) attended to this high level conference.
Discussions during the conference addressed critical issues in the aviation sector, including Aviation Safety and Security, Facilitation, Air Navigation, Air Transport Development, Disaster Prevention, Environmental considerations, Capacity Building, focusing on practical implementations.
The conference aimed to develop recommendations to enhance the APAC region’s aviation landscape. The Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer of Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.), participated in the event as the main delegate from the State and moderated a high-level panel discussion on the "Economic Development of Air Transport." He also held discussions with regional delegations on strengthening bilateral aviation cooperation, training, and capacity building.
The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines has chaired the 59th Conference of Directors General of Civil Aviation. Remarkably, Sri Lanka previously hosted the 53rd DGCA Conference in the year 2016, with the President of Sri Lanka in attendance.
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The second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation successfully held in New Delhi, India from 11 – 12 September 2024, following the offer made at the first Ministerial Conference in Beijing, China, in 2018.
The conference focused on addressing key challengers such as infrastructure develo
The second Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Civil Aviation successfully held in New Delhi, India from 11 – 12 September 2024, following the offer made at the first Ministerial Conference in Beijing, China, in 2018.
The conference focused on addressing key challengers such as infrastructure development, sustainability, and workforce development, while fostering greater collaboration between the public and private sector.
Mr. Salvatore Sciacchitano, the president of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council and Mr. Juan Carlos Salazar, the ICAO secretary General had been attended to this conference.
Representing Sri Lanka, AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.), the Director General of Civil Aviation and Chief Executive Officer led the delegation and delivered the statement of Sri Lanka’s commitment on development of civil Aviation on behalf of the Minister of Ports, Shipping & Civil Aviation. Ms. Avanthi Senarathne, the Vice Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Limited attended as a member of the SriLankan delegation.
Prime Minister of India, Mr. Narajdra Modi grace this occasion as chief guest and during this conference he officially announced “Delhi Declaration” by all member states in Asia Pacific.
This conference and the adoption of the “Delhi Declaration” represent a significant step forward in advancing safety, security and sustainability in the Asia Pacific civil aviation sector and highlights the spirit of corporation that exists among the countries of this region.
The event jointly organized by the Ministry of Civil Aviation and ICAO had bring together Transport and Aviation Ministers, Regulators Bodies and industry experts from across the Asia Pacific region.
The President of ICAO said that the Asia Pacific was among the fastest growing market in the world.
“We are expecting 4.5 billion passengers in this year, which will growth on 11.5 billion passengers in 2050. Asia Pacific is a beacon of this growth.” He added.
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Katunayake, 14th August 2024 — The 8th National Air Transport Facilitation Committee (NATFC) Meeting convened today at the Kokila Auditorium, Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka, Katunayake. Chaired by Mr. Ruwanchandra, the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation, this pivotal meeting underscored Sri Lanka’s commitment to enhancing its aviation sector through coordinated efforts in facilitation.
The NATFC is a collaborative platform bringing together departments, agencies, and organizations across Sri Lanka, all of which have a stake in the international civil aviation landscape. The primary goal of the NATFC is to take necessary policy-level decisions to achieve the objectives established under the National Air Transport Facilitation Program (NATFP).
Facilitation has emerged as a cornerstone of global aviation, recognized by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a critical factor on par with safety and security. Reflecting this importance, ICAO has designated 2024 as the "Year of Facilitation." The relevance of facilitation was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent recovery period, where streamlined processes were crucial in maintaining the flow of international air traffic.
Facilitation involves a comprehensive set of measures and the effective use of human and material resources to enhance and streamline the movement of aircraft, crew, passengers, cargo, baggage, mail, and stores through airports. This is done while ensuring strict compliance with both international and national regulations. The members of the NATFC are fully committed to this process, recognizing that a well-coordinated facilitation strategy is key to the efficient and secure operation of Sri Lanka’s airports.
This meeting not only reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s dedication to enhancing its aviation sector but also highlighted the collaborative spirit essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities in the evolving global aviation landscape.
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The 31st Steering Committee Meeting of COSCAP - South Asia (Cooperative Development of Operational Safety and Continuing Airworthiness Program – South Asia), dedicated to advancing civil aviation safety in the region, successfully concluded in Paro, Bhutan from 7th to 9th of May 2024.
During this gathering, AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.), Director General of Civil Aviation & Chief Executive Officer of Sri Lanka, assumed leadership as the Chairman for a 2-year term. This pivotal role oversees the annual steering committee meetings, which play a vital role in shaping civil aviation safety initiatives. Mr. Khaqan Murtaza, DGCA of Pakistan, served as the previous Chairman for the past two years.
Established in 1997, COSCAP-SA embarks on its 6th Phase with a steadfast commitment to enhancing safety measures within South Asian civil aviation. Over the years, it has proactively implemented various initiatives to bolster safety standards across the region.
The Steering Committee meeting drew participation not only from member states but also representatives from key stakeholders such as Airbus, Boeing, Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), as well as Civil Aviation Authorities from Britain (CAA-UK) and France (DGCA-France).
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The government has decided to modernize the Hingurakgoda Domestic Airport, an antiquated airport in Sri Lanka, to facilitate international flight operations. This airport, originally constructed for the Royal Air Force of England during World War II, was known as RAF Minneriya at the time.
Under the leadership of President Ranil Wickremesinghe, the current government aims to transform this centrally located airport into an international airport to bolster the country's economy. As part of this initiative, the 2024 budget includes a financial allocation of 2 billion rupees to commence initial construction and development activities.
With this funding, the first phase of development will focus on extending the existing 2287-meter-long and 46-meter-wide runway to 2500 meters. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation emphasizes that upon completion of these enhancements, the runway will be capable of accommodating Airbus A320 and Boeing B737 aircraft. The total Project Cost is 17 billions rupees.
In order to assess existing challenges and conduct a feasibility study to guide the development efforts at Hingurakgoda Airport, Mr. Nimal Siripala de Silva, the Hon.Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Aviation, conducted a special inspection at the airport on April 4th, 2024.
The Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation – Mr.K.D.S.Ruwanchandra, Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force – Air Marshal Udeni Rajapaksa, Acting Chairman of Civil Aviation Authority – Mr. Mangala Wijesinghe, Chairman of Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) Ltd., - Mr. Athula Galketiya, Director, Civil Aviation Services Authority – Air Vice Marshal Sagara Kotakadeniya and several officials were also present at the occasion.
In the discussion, Minister Nimal Siripala de Silva said: Through the modernization of this airport, we hope to transform it into an international airport in the future, for which the President has given 02 billion rupees in the budget of 2023 to start the construction. Accordingly, every year to come Higurakgoda is working to provide funds from the budget for the construction of the airport.
Explaining further, the minister said: Our ultimate goal is to operate Mattala, Katunayake, Ratmalana and Palali airports as well as Higurakgoda airport as a civil airport.
Therefore, he asked for the support of all parties to make this development project a success.
Source - Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Aviation.
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The representatives of Maldiviana Aviation (Private) Limited, GSA (General Sales Agent) for Aeroflot Russian Airlines & Rossiya Airlines, made a courtesy call on AVM Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.), the Director General of Civil Aviation & Chief Executive Officer (DGCA & CEO) on 02nd April 2024 at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.
The discussions revolved around the Airline’s new business opportunities and the DGCA & CEO positively welcomed their proposals. The Representatives were very keen on the suggestions and agreed to look into them favorably.
Ms. Padma Beddewela, Operation Director/ Accountable Manager of Maldiviana Aviation (Private) Limited , was also present at the meeting and she specially mentioned that both airlines have identified Sri Lanka as an important aspect of their operation and wish to continue direct operations from Russia to Colombo.
Ms Viktoria Smirnova, Mr Aleksandr Chermiuk, Mr Praneeth Fernando & Mr Nimal Maussawa were present on this occasion representing the Maldiviana Aviation (Private) Limited.
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Mr. Florian Guillermet assumed duties as the Executive Director of the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) from April 1, 2024 following his selection by the EASA Management Board on December 13, 2023.
Mr. Guillermet succeeds Mr.Luc Tytgat, who led the Agency as Acting Executive Director for the last seven months. Mr. Tytgat will remain with the Agency in a senior leadership role until August, supporting Mr. Guillermet through the transition period. Mr. Tytgat was in Sri Lanka for EASA’s International Cooperation Forum successfully hosted jointly by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka and EASA from 19th to 21st of March 2024.
Mr. Guillermet brings extensive leadership experience from various organizations in the aviation sector. He has worked in aviation for 26 years, including top level management posts in France and in European Union aviation organizations.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka wishes Mr. Florian Guillermet for a successful tenure as the Executive Director of EASA.
About the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka:
The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) is the national aviation regulatory authority in Sri Lanka, responsible for ensuring the safety, security, and efficiency of civil aviation operations within the country. Established under the Civil Aviation Act No. 14 of 2010, the CAASL oversees various aspects of aviation, including licensing, airworthiness, airport operations, air navigation services, and aviation security. Committed to upholding international standards and best practices, the CAASL works collaboratively with domestic and international stakeholders to promote safe and sustainable aviation development in Sri Lanka. For more information, please visit www.caa.lk.
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Mr.Simon James Mone, Aerodromes and Ground Aids Expert for COSCAP-SA was on mission to review the ICAO Protocol Question in the field of Aerodromes and Ground Aids (AGA) for future USOAP CMA audits.
A mission debrief was conducted by AGA Expert to DGCA, DDG-ATSR , Director Aerodromes and his team on 22nd March and the report was handed over to DGCA along with the Action plan prepared to improve the effective implementation of ICAO Standards at Sri Lankan Aerodromes and the regulatory framework.
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Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) and the European Safety Agency (EASA) successfully organized the 08th International Cooperation Forum (ICF) from 19th to 21st of March 2024 at the Hilton, Colombo in first time.
There were over 100 foreign & local participants from the European Union, Africa, Asia Pacific and from other parts of the world involved in Aviation.
Mr. Luc Tytgat Acting Director EASA & Ms. Maria Nieves Director- Strategy & Safety Management opened the Forum along with Mr. G. S. Withanage, Chairman of CAASL, Mr. D. W. S. Narangoda, Vice Chairman of CAASL, Air vice Marshal Sagara Kotakadeniya (Retd.) the Director General of Civil Aviation, Ms. Awanthi Senarathna, Vice Chairman of Airport & Aviation Service (Sri Lanka) Limited, Mr. Rayhan Wanniappa, Deputy Director General Air Transport & Security Regulations from Sri Lanka.
The ICF, which was first held in 2008, is an international platform for aviation authorities and regional organizations interested in regional cooperation and the EASA system. It provides an opportunity to share experiences and best practices, discussing the latest developments in safety and environmental standards, and promotion of safe and sustainable aviation worldwide.
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