Colombo, Jan 7: Sri Lanka’s aviation regulator has begun a formal inquiry after a Cinnamon Air seaplane experienced an incident while attempting to land on Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya, authorities said on Tuesday.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL) confirmed that the aircraft involved was a Cessna 208 Caravan operating a domestic flight to Gregory Wewa to collect passengers. The incident occurred at around 12.30 p.m., but no injuries were reported, and both pilots were safe, officials said. There was no damage to third parties.
CAASL Director General and Chief Executive Officer Captain Daminda Rambukwella said the aircraft was operating within approved regulations at the time of the incident. Water-based flight operations at Gregory Lake have been conducted for several years, and this marks the first such occurrence reported at the location, according to the regulator.
Following instructions from the Ministry of Ports and Aviation, a CAASL investigation team was immediately deployed to the site, and a detailed inquiry is now underway to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.
Cinnamon Air has operated the aircraft since 2013 and holds valid aviation approvals, including a Certificate of Airworthiness, Certificate of Registration, and a current Aircraft Operator Certificate authorising domestic air services within Sri Lanka, CAASL noted.
The investigation is being supported by several state agencies, including the Sri Lanka Air Force, Sri Lanka Navy, and Sri Lanka Police. Authorities said further information would be released once the inquiry progresses.
