Following a meeting between Sri Lankan aviation authorities and Turkish Airlines officials, the airline has committed to investigating and compensating for damage to world javelin champion Rumesh Tharanga's sporting equipment sustained during his return flight to Sri Lanka.
Turkish Airlines has agreed to assess and provide compensation for damage caused to the javelins of Sri Lankan javelin champion Rumesh Tharanga, according to a meeting held on September 15 at the Civil Aviation Authority premises. The discussion was chaired by Deputy Minister of Ports and Civil Aviation Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku and included Ministry Secretary W.W.S. Mangala, Civil Aviation Authority Director General Captain Daminda Rambukwella, CAA Chairman Retired Colonel Ranjith Rajasinghe, and Turkish Airlines representatives.
The incident occurred when Tharanga's javelins were damaged during his return journey to Sri Lanka from Hungary via Turkish Airlines. According to reporting, four javelins were affected, though Tharanga himself has stated that "all three javelins I used for over 90 throws have been damaged," creating a discrepancy in the reported number of damaged implements. During the meeting, Turkish Airlines representatives expressed regret and committed to conducting institutional investigations into what occurred.
Both sources indicate that the airline has agreed to undertake a swift and proper assessment of the damage and to implement compensation measures without delay. Tharanga, described as a world champion and holder of multiple international titles including gold at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship, responded to the incident with relative restraint, characterizing it as a potential mistake rather than a major concern. The damaged equipment reportedly includes javelins used in his record-setting performances.