Not only is it a prestige to the country it also provides employment to a large number of people and if it is properly managed it is revenue to the nation and the country. It is sophisticated, highly technical and surrounded by glamour due to competitiveness. Due to political interference and massive red tape involved, an almost total lack of motivation exists among AirLanka employees, generating sometimes a demoralizing effect and resulting in a lack of growth. Employees complain experienced staff are not properly utilized and in some instances considered a liability rather than an asset. Viable avenues and routes have not been exploited for the growth of the airline, they said.
Salaries are at an all time low of around Rs.
In comparison with the mercantile sector, a large number of AirLanka employees remain the lowest paid. Looking at other airlines in the region, Singapore and Malaysian Airlines, the achievements of UL remain obscure and not of a competitive standard. Yet another important aspect to be addressed by the new Chairman. Meanwhile it is not the only woes of AirLanka that beset its new Chairman. Last week the public were informed that Customs Officers conducted a raid on the offices of Mr. Jayawardena in Colombo.