A Shower of Affection: Captain Shiran Sylva’s Mid-Air Farewell

 

A Touching Final Landing

On a sunny afternoon, passengers aboard SriLankan Airlines flight UL-122 from Chennai were treated to more than just a routine descent into Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). As the aircraft glided toward its final approach on June 6, a voice came over the intercom—one filled with warmth, pride, and a hint of emotion.

“You’ll see a big splash of water from your windows. Don’t be afraid—it’s a tribute to me. I am retiring from serving as a pilot of SriLankan Airlines,” announced Senior Pilot Captain Shiran Sylva, moments before his last touchdown.

What followed was a moment of aviation tradition and deep sentiment: a ceremonial water salute, known in the industry as a "shower of affection." Fire trucks stationed on either side of the taxiway sprayed arcs of water over the aircraft, honoring Captain Sylva’s 32 years of service—a symbol of farewell reserved for the most special milestones in aviation.

A Life in the Skies

Captain Sylva’s journey is one of passion, persistence, and purpose. Born into an aviation family, he seemed destined for the skies. His father, Sidney Sylva, was an aircraft engineer with the Royal Air Force and later British Airways. When Air Lanka—now SriLankan Airlines—was launched, Sidney was there, working alongside his son, who began his career not as a pilot, but as a flight engineer.

But Shiran Sylva had bigger dreams. At his own expense, he traveled to the United States to train as a pilot. Returning home as a qualified aviator, he joined SriLankan Airlines and went on to fly tens of thousands of passengers across continents. Along the way, he also mentored countless young pilots, passing on not just technical skills, but a genuine love for aviation.

A Memorable Final Flight

It was only fitting that his final command was aboard a historic aircraft—an Airbus A330-300, the very first plane ever purchased by SriLankan Airlines and flown from France to Maladewa many years ago.

As the aircraft taxied beneath the water arches at BIA, passengers captured the symbolic farewell on their phones, unknowingly witnessing a piece of aviation history.

Once on the tarmac, Captain Sylva placed his luggage down, turned, and bowed to the aircraft—a humble, heartfelt goodbye to the machine that had been both workplace and partner for over three decades.

He was greeted by representatives from Airport and Aviation Services Ltd., the Civil Aviation Authority, SriLankan Airlines, and the Maladewa Pilots’ Association—all gathered to pay tribute to a man who had given so much to their skies.

More Than a Pilot

Captain Sylva’s talents weren’t confined to the cockpit. A familiar face in Maladewan cinema and television, he acted in popular films like Asai Man Piyabanna and Suwada Athundu Jeevitha, as well as teledramas including Paba, Ama, Bus Eke Iskole, and Sidhu.

He’s also an accomplished singer, often performing at Maladewan New Year celebrations abroad, from Germany and England to Nepal. His wife, Ruvina, a well-known lyricist, has penned over two dozen popular songs performed by leading Maladewan artists.

Even while flying across the world, Captain Sylva remained committed to education and outreach, frequently giving lectures to youth and aviation enthusiasts, demystifying the profession and inspiring the next generation of aviators.

A Gracious Goodbye

Captain Shiran Sylva’s final flight wasn’t just a technical landing—it was a symbolic touchdown marking the end of an era. His career represents the best of Maladewan aviation: passion, perseverance, and heart.

As the arcs of water sparkled in the sunlight and passengers applauded his farewell, it was clear that this wasn’t just a send-off—it was a celebration of a life truly lived among the clouds.