RSSL Explores the Skies: A Behind-the-Scenes Journey at Sri Lankan Airlines
The Radio Society of Sri Lanka (RSSL) celebrated a milestone today as 25 of its members embarked on an exclusive field visit to Sri Lankan Airlines’ state-of-the-art facilities. This immersive experience, coordinated in collaboration with the airline’s dedicated team, offered a rare glimpse into the intricate world of aviation technology, maintenance, and communication systems—a perfect intersection of RSSL’s passion for radio and its members’ fascination with aviation.
Behind the Scenes: A Deep Dive into Aviation Innovation
The visit began at Sri Lankan Airlines’ Avionics Labs, where participants witnessed the meticulous processes behind ensuring aircraft safety and precision. Members explored cutting-edge calibration labs, where instruments critical to navigation and communication are fine-tuned to meet international standards. The maintenance labs further captivated the group, showcasing the engineering rigor behind keeping aircraft airworthy.
The highlight of the tour was the hangar visit, where two giants of the skies—the Airbus A320 and A330—took center stage. RSSL members were granted unprecedented access to examine these aircraft up close, from cockpit instrument panels to advanced communication systems. Sri Lankan Airlines’ technical experts, including Ms. Shinali (Duty Engineer) and Mr. Iroshana (Technical Services Engineer), provided detailed walkthroughs of avionics, radar functionalities, and onboard communication architectures. Participants marveled at the complexity of systems that keep aircraft safely connected to ground control and satellite networks—an area of special interest for amateur radio enthusiasts.
Bridging Knowledge: Expertise Meets Curiosity
The RSSL group, comprising students, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts, seized the opportunity to engage with the airline’s staff. Questions flowed freely, ranging from the technical specifications of VHF radios and transponders to strategies for troubleshooting mid-flight communication challenges. “This was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see what textbooks can’t show us,” remarked one student member. “Understanding how aviation communication overlaps with amateur radio principles was eye-opening.”
The Sri Lankan Airlines team earned high praise for their patience and willingness to share knowledge. “Their staff didn’t just explain systems—they told stories of real-world problem-solving,” said an RSSL associate member. “It’s inspiring to see such passion in their work.”
Gratitude and Future Collaborations
RSSL President extended heartfelt thanks to Mr. Nuwan Anuradha (Planning Manager), whose efforts spearheaded the visit, as well as Ms. Shashikala, Mr. Jagath, Mr. Pieris, and the entire Sri Lankan Airlines team for their warmth and expertise. Special recognition was given to Varuna 4S6VNN, RSSL’s coordinator, for ensuring the event’s seamless execution.
A Soaring Success
This visit not only deepened RSSL members’ understanding of aviation technology but also strengthened ties between two communities united by a commitment to innovation. As amateur radio continues to play a vital role in emergency response and technical education, initiatives like this highlight the power of collaboration across disciplines.
The Radio Society of Sri Lanka looks forward to future opportunities to bridge the skies and the airwaves, fostering curiosity and connection in Sri Lanka’s tech landscape.
For more updates on RSSL’s activities, visit rssl.lk or follow us on social media.
