A pilot has challenged before the Supreme Court the alleged violation of his fundamental rights over his exclusion from the selection process for the post of Deputy Director General (Flight Safety Regulations) at the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka (CAASL), while questioning the subsequent appointment of another candidate to the position.

The petition, submitted to the Supreme Court, has been filed by Captain K. Isuru Sarathchandra, a Civil Aviation Inspector (Aircraft Flight Operations) serving the CAASL.

The petitioner alleges that although he possessed the qualifications and experience specified in the vacancy advertisement, he was not called for an interview and was subsequently informed through the Right to Information process that he had not been shortlisted for allegedly failing to meet the minimum qualifications and experience requirements.

According to the petition, Sarathchandra has more than 20 years of managerial-level experience in aviation, including service with private aviation companies and the CAASL. He also holds a Bachelor’s degree and a Master’s degree in aviation management, among other professional qualifications.

He alleges that four candidates, all retired Air Force officers, were interviewed for the post on January 30, 2026, despite the advertised requirements, which he claims did not recognise military service as qualifying experience.

The petition further alleges that Lasantha Dahanayake, subsequently appointed to the post, had previously failed a pilot proficiency test. Dahanayake was appointed on February 26 and assumed duties on March 12.

Sarathchandra also alleges that he was transferred to Mattala Airport shortly after proceedings were initiated and was subsequently subjected to repeated transfers between Mattala and Katunayake, which he claims were intended to inconvenience and harass him.

He is seeking a declaration that his fundamental rights under Articles 12(1) and 14(1)(g) of the Constitution were violated, the setting aside of the interview and appointment, and fresh interviews for all qualified applicants, including himself, along with compensation and costs.