Aviation Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said SriLankan Airlines would not be privatised under any circumstances.

During an observation visit to the airport, Ranatunga said the national carrier incurred more losses under the UNP-led administration.

"Under the pre-2015 administration, there was a plan to turn SriLankan Airlines into a profit-making institution. Under the Yahapalanaya government, there was no vision for was there any direction," he added.

The Minister also exchanged views with several trade union representatives on the new government's plans to resurrect the airline.

Prominent business leader Ashok Pathirage has been appointed the new Chairman of SriLanka Airlines by President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa.