Mr. Sheldon Hee, Regional Vice President (Asia Pacific) of the International Air Transport Association (IATA), paid a courtesy call on Capt. Daminda Rambukwella, Director General of Civil Aviation & Chief Executive Officer, at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL).

The discussions focused on the current state of Sri Lanka’s aviation industry, which has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years particularly due to the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and explored emerging opportunities for airline growth and recovery.

Mr. Hee commended Sri Lanka for its steadfast commitment and valuable contributions to fostering a seamless air transport sector, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to rebuild and strengthen the aviation industry.

During the meeting, the DGCA & CEO and the IATA Regional Vice President signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) related to the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA). The IOSA program is a globally recognized safety and quality standard that assesses an airline's operational management and control systems. Established in 2003, it aims to enhance airline safety, streamline auditing processes, and improve operational efficiency. Airlines are typically re-evaluated every two years to maintain IOSA registration.

Also present at the meeting were Mr. Buddika Hewawasam, the Chairman of Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Beareu & the Country Manager of IATA Sri Lanka, Mr. Rayhan Wanniappa, Deputy Director General (Air Transport & Security Regulation) and Mr. Azhar Azahari, Regional Manager (South Asia) of IATA.