CEO Interview: SriLankan celebrates 45 years of progress and passenger-centered excellence
This is a special feature from the April 2025 WTCE issue of PAX International on page 18.
Richard Nuttall, CEO, SriLankan Airlines
Flying for 45 years, SriLankan Airlines has become more than a carrier—it is a symbol of Sri Lanka’s spirit and forward-thinking innovation. Marking this milestone anniversary last year, the airline is not just celebrating its past but charting an exciting course for the future. From sustainability initiatives that give new life to old materials to cutting-edge technology that redefines the travel experience, SriLankan Airlines is shaping the future of aviation in ways that go beyond the skies.
To commemorate its 45th birthday in 2024, the airline wanted to celebrate right alongside its passengers. On the anniversary date, passengers flying with SriLankan Airlines who were also celebrating their birthdays were treated to delightful surprises on board—and the festivities did not stop there.
“We also gave customers an opportunity to participate in a raffle draw to win an exciting tour of the airline’s facilities, including the hangar,” SriLankan Airlines CEO Richard Nuttall tells PAX International this spring.
Aloe vera and pineapple drink for SriLankan Airlines
While anniversary celebrations were a highlight, SriLankan Airlines is also receiving attention for its commitment to sustainability, including its innovative Mathaka upcycling initiative. The project upcycles retired airline items into a unique range of lifestyle products. Through this initiative, the airline has found creative ways to breathe new life into materials that would otherwise be discarded.
“We recently premiered our latest range of Mathaka products, which includes travel bags, tote bags, peg dolls, table runners and mats, and many more exciting items, all beautifully transformed from unusable aircraft seat covers, blankets, curtains, uniforms, wooden air cargo pallets and other items,” says Nuttall.
What makes these products truly special is the quality. Despite being upcycled, the materials boast a luxurious feel.
"Although the items we upcycle are no longer usable in our service, the materials themselves retain their premium quality. Cabin textiles, in particular, are selected through stringent quality control processes and often carry original equipment manufacturer approval, giving a luxurious feel even in their second life," says Nuttall.
SriLankan Airlines is receiving attention for its commitment to sustainability, including its innovative Mathaka upcycling initiative that retires airline items into a unique range of lifestyle products
Beyond Mathaka, SriLankan Airlines is working on a variety of other sustainability projects too. These efforts include improving energy efficiency at its bases and partnering with Sri Lankan authorities to help restore the country's biodiversity. The airline has also switched to eco-friendly, lightweight carpets and recycled fabric pillow covers and antimacassars onboard.
But the airline recognizes that its responsibility does not end at taking care of the planet—it wants to support its community too.
“Through SriLankan Cares, our CSR arm, we focus on improving the welfare of Sri Lanka’s youth through initiatives in healthcare, education, leadership and skill development,” says Nuttall. “Additionally, we support economically disadvantaged women and youth with projects like Mathaka and Eco Trailers, which provides training to become eco guides.”
In addition to its environmental initiatives, SriLankan Airlines is finding ways to leverage technology to make its passenger experience smoother and more enjoyable.
“We have enhanced passenger experience through several innovations, both inflight and on the ground,” explains Nuttall.
The airline is introducing wireless inflight entertainment, allowing passengers to use PEDs to access a range of entertainment content. And while it was one of the first airlines in the region to implement advanced self-service kiosks and a bag drop facility for international travel, SriLankan Airlines wants to continue simplifying the passenger experience.
“We are exploring the power of AI to offer customers a seamless experience across various touchpoints, including the launch of an AI-driven chatbot," says Nuttall.
Known for its hospitality, SriLankan Airlines passengers are treated to authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, while the cabin atmosphere is designed to reflect the island's vibrant flora and fauna, offering a sensory experience that brings the spirit of Sri Lanka to the skies
While technology certainly helps make the travel experience smoother, SriLankan Airlines knows that true comfort and joy come from the personal touch. Beyond the latest innovations, it focuses on bringing the soul of Sri Lanka to every flight, ensuring passengers feel connected to the island’s warmth and culture from the moment they board. Passengers are treated to authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, while the cabin atmosphere is designed to reflect the island's vibrant flora and fauna, offering a sensory experience that brings the spirit of Sri Lanka to the skies.
As Nuttall says, “The local culture permeates every aspect of our service—it is an integral part of the SriLankan Airlines DNA and is what sets us apart from other airlines.”
As the company looks to its 46th year, it is leading the way toward a more sustainable, innovative future fused with the elements of a rich heritage. With a commitment to sustainability that is woven into every flight, the airline is setting standards in eco-friendly practices. Coupled with cutting-edge technology that makes every passenger's journey more comfortable and personalized, SriLankan Airlines is reimagining what it means to fly responsibly. As it blends Sri Lankan warmth with a greener, more connected vision, the airline is paving the way for a future where travel is not just easier for its passengers, but also better for the planet.
