COLOMBO — In a dramatic development following earlier reports by NewsLine, multiple directors of the troubled national carrier are understood to have tendered their resignations amid mounting frustration over the government’s delay in resolving the airline’s long-standing debt burden.

Sources familiar with the situation confirm that Sarath Ganegoda, Chairman of Sri Lankan Airlines, has stepped down from his position. Alongside him, director Rohan Gunathilakais also understood to have resigned.

Two additional board members Harsha Cabraal and Senarath Liyanage are also reported to have indicated their intention to step aside. However, according to sources with knowledge of the discussions, they have been requested to delay formally submitting their resignations for the moment while the Ministry of Finance Sri Lanka considers the next course of action.

Those close to the situation say the growing disquiet within the board stems from continued uncertainty over how the government intends to deal with the airline’s legacy debt and restructuring process, an issue that has long weighed on the carrier’s finances and strategic future.

Several members of the board are believed to have originally accepted their positions in an effort to help stabilise the airline and restore credibility after years of controversy and allegations surrounding the management of the carrier. However, with key policy decisions still pending, frustration is said to have intensified in recent weeks.

Officials contacted for comment did not immediately confirm the resignations. Nevertheless, multiple sources speaking on condition of anonymity said discussions between the board and government authorities had reached a point where several directors felt it increasingly difficult to continue without clarity on the airline’s restructuring strategy.

The airline remains wholly owned by the government, with the Treasury acting as the principal shareholder, and any major change to the board structure would ultimately require approval at that level.

The developments come at a sensitive time for the carrier as Sri Lanka continues its broader economic recovery and attempts to reposition its aviation sector.

Further announcements regarding the composition of the board and the government’s plans for the airline are expected in the coming days.