The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has confirmed that Sri Lanka currently holds sufficient stocks of Jet A-1 aviation fuel to ensure uninterrupted flight operations across the country until the end of May 2026. The assurance has brought relief to airlines, tourism stakeholders, and passengers amid continued volatility in global energy markets.
Strategic Procurement Strengthens Supply Chain
The CPC has attributed this stability to a carefully designed procurement strategy that blends long-term planning with short-term flexibility. According to CPC Chairman D.J. Rajakaruna, the corporation has implemented a dual-layer system to safeguard fuel availability.
Under this approach, long-term contracts have been secured to guarantee consistent supply volumes, while spot market purchases are being used to address immediate requirements and take advantage of favorable short-term opportunities. This combination has allowed the CPC to remain agile in an unpredictable global oil market.
Importantly, the corporation has also confirmed that all aviation fuel shipments scheduled to arrive through late May have already been fully prepaid. This proactive financial measure minimizes risks associated with credit constraints, logistical delays, or supplier hesitancy, issues that have historically disrupted fuel imports during periods of economic stress.
Buffer Stock Provides Stability
The CPC’s announcement comes at a time when global fuel markets remain highly sensitive due to geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East. Concerns surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route, have contributed to price fluctuations and supply uncertainties worldwide.
Despite these external pressures, Sri Lanka’s aviation fuel reserves remain stable and sufficient. Current estimates indicate that the country has secured enough stock and confirmed shipments to meet approximately 47 to 49 days of demand. Daily consumption levels have remained steady, supported by Sri Lanka’s reliance on refined fuel imports from regional hubs rather than direct crude oil sourcing from high-risk zones.
Chairman Rajakaruna emphasized that the CPC has strengthened its procurement mechanisms to ensure uninterrupted supply. He noted that a balanced mix of contractual agreements and spot purchases has been instrumental in maintaining both availability and price stability.
Focus on Long-Term Energy Security
While the immediate priority has been to ensure adequate supply through May, the Sri Lankan government is also pursuing long-term measures to enhance energy security and support aviation growth. Plans are underway to expand fuel storage capacity in Muthurajawela, a key logistics hub for petroleum products. In addition, authorities are working on developing a dedicated pipeline to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), which serves as the country’s primary aviation gateway.
These infrastructure projects aim to significantly improve efficiency in fuel distribution and reduce reliance on road transportation. Once completed, they are expected to double Sri Lanka’s domestic aviation fuel storage capacity by 2028, positioning the country as a stronger regional aviation hub.
Confidence for Aviation and Tourism Sectors
The assurance of uninterrupted aviation fuel supply is expected to bolster confidence among international airlines and travelers. With Sri Lanka’s tourism industry steadily recovering, maintaining reliable flight operations remains critical for sustaining growth.
Industry stakeholders have welcomed the CPC’s announcement, noting that consistent fuel availability is essential not only for operational continuity but also for maintaining competitive airline scheduling and pricing.
For now, the CPC has reiterated its commitment to what it describes as a “scientific” approach to fuel management, carefully coordinating procurement, storage, and distribution to ensure efficiency and stability. As global energy markets continue to fluctuate, Sri Lanka’s proactive planning and strategic reserves appear to have placed the country in a relatively secure position, at least in the short term.
