Breaking News

My helicopter not for rescue mission - Sajin

14 Jun 2013 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) MP Sajin Vass Gunawardene said today his helicopter did not have the capability to carry out rescue operations.

He said this in response to a statement made by United National Party (UNP) MP Wijedasa Rajapaksa that Mr. Gunawardene had not provided a helicopter to be used in rescue operations last Saturday when the deadly cyclone hit the Balapitiya coastal belt.

He described Mr. Rajapaksa as a learned self-proclaimed legal luminary who was unaware that only twin-engine helicopters with the doors and other obstacle removed that could handle rescue operations.

Mr. Gunawardene said any helicopter that operates under a civil operating licence was not permitted to fly unless specific approval was obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka while special equipment had to be also installed.

He said the only institution in Sri Lanka that was currently permitted by the CAA to undertake such rescue missions was the Sri Lanka Air Force.

Mr. Gunawardene said in adverse weather conditions like strong winds, rain and lack of visibility, small single engine helicopters could not fly.

He asked Mr. Rajapaksa to help them by contributing funds to improve the livelihood of the affected families. “I have organized a ‘Livelihood sustenance programme effective immediately,” he said.“It is very easy for people such as Wijedasa Rajapaksa to keep criticising but let us see whether he will put his money where his mouth is.”

Breaking News

My helicopter not for rescue mission - Sajin

Most Popular Articles

Breaking Down the Israel–Iran Conflict: What We Know So Far - Day 100

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in Sri Lankan Standard Time

Mother wins three-decade legal battle over property against son

Major food supplier fined for selling expired products

‘Jean Aunty’ chased away from Suresh Sallay’s protest at Fort

Hayleys obtains enjoining order against Wimal Weerawansa

Latest News

Special programme launched to help healthcare workers curb tobacco use

Heavy rain expected as El Niño conditions set to develop globally after February: Officials

“LTTE diaspora will not fund Government again, will not vote to bring it back,” Says MP Archchuna

Wild elephant, calf electrocuted in Okkampitiya

Funeral for Iran’s late Supreme Leader Khamenei to begin July 4, burial set for July 9