Fourteen pilots earn their Wings at SriLankan Airlines
SriLankan Airlines presented 'Wings' to 14 pilots, following their
successful completion of the national carrier's rigorous training
program.
The airline's Cadet Pilot Training Program has earned a strong
reputation for its high standard. The high standards of SriLankan's
pilots contributed to the airline receiving the rare honour of being
named "World's Most Efficient Small Fleet Operator" of two types of
aircraft - A330's and A340's - by Airbus Industries.
Capt. Druvi Perera, Head of Flight Operations, said: "When we
selected these 14 young men, we did not select them as Cadet Pilots,
Junior First Officers, or First Officers. We selected them as future
Captains. I have every confidence that all of them will in a few years
be wearing the uniforms of Captains."
Not less than 16 pilots who joined SriLankan as Cadet Pilots several
years ago, have earned promotions to the rank of Captain this year.
Pradeepa Dahanayake, Head of Human Resources, said: "The Cadet Pilot
Training Program has always been of immense pride to the entire airline.
It is an extraordinary program, which has turned out hundreds of pilots
over several decades, including most of our veteran Captains today."
Selection for the program is extremely competitive, and every Cadet
Pilot sits exams at regular intervals during the training. Cadet Pilots
undergo a year and a half of instruction which includes flying training,
simulator training overseas, and classroom instruction.
Capt. Perera added: "Pilots at SriLankan have a very proud history
indeed. Throughout our 29 years we have gained a reputation in the
industry as an airline that maintains the highest standards in service,
safety and efficiency. It is also no coincidence that we have one of the
finest safety records in the world of aviation." The new pilots received
their wings from the airline's most senior pilot, Captain Hiranjan
Bibile, who was the Chief Guest at their graduation on 27th November.
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