Dayasiri claims archaic aircraft from China should be in a museum

By Saman Indrajith

SLPP dissident MP Dayasiri Jayasekera in Parliament yesterday demanded to know from the government under whose instructions Chinese-built PT-6 aircraft that should have been in aero museums were being used to train pilots here.

“There are six PT-6 aircraft used for pilot training. These aircraft have caused tragic deaths of six persons because they are so archaic. The PT-6 aircraft which are used for training purposes were manufactured in 1958 and the engines were manufactured in 196,” MP Dayasiri said.

“These aircraft had been built even before we were born. They should be museum pieces. Two pilots were killed in the most recent accident. They are Wing Commander Tharindu Herath and Engineering officer, Flying Officer Peshan Warnasooriya who were killed in a crash in China Bay in Trincomalee. Why these aircraft manufactured in 1958 are still used for training purposes. On whose instructions are they being used?”

“The government has spent USD 55 million for repair work of the Kfir fighter jets and the PT-6 aircraft costs only USD 0.75. Who should take the responsibility for these incidents,” he queried.