By Srinivas Iyer
A delegation of 10 Airport Managers from Airport and Aviation Services Sri Lanka Private Limited (AASL) successfully completed a two-week customized capacity enhancement programme at the Indian Aviation Academy (IAA) from March 9 to 20, 2026.
AASL, the statutory body responsible for managing and developing civil airports in Sri Lanka, nominated the officials as part of efforts to strengthen operational efficiency and technical expertise. The programme was designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of modern aviation management practices.
The IAA, a premier aviation training institute and joint initiative of the Airports Authority of India, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, and Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, is a full member of the ICAO TRAINAIR PLUS Programme. It is known for its focus on experiential learning and professional development across all domains of aviation.
During the programme, participants were exposed to a wide range of subjects, including terminal operations, passenger terminal planning and management, airside management strategies, air traffic management, passenger facilitation, aviation safety and security, aircraft recovery systems, crisis and emergency response, and business continuity planning.
The training initiative was conducted under the framework of ongoing bilateral cooperation between India and Sri Lanka in the field of capacity development. This partnership has seen steady expansion in recent years, reflecting the growing strategic relationship between the two countries.
The cooperation received a significant boost following an announcement by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his State visit to Sri Lanka in April 2025, introducing 700 customized training slots annually for Sri Lankan professionals.
In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding between the National Centre for Good Governance and the Sri Lanka Institute of Development Administration—signed during the December 2024 visit of Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India—facilitates training for nearly 300 Sri Lankan civil servants each year.
The successful completion of this programme underscores the deepening collaboration between India and Sri Lanka, particularly in strengthening aviation capabilities and fostering institutional knowledge exchange.
