Sri Lanka Pilot Locked Out Of Cockpit Over Toilet Break On 10Hr Flight

The First Officer of a long-distance SriLankan Airlines flight was allegedly locked out of the cockpit by the Captain after she took a toilet break mid-air. The incident unfolded on an Airbus A330 when she took a break without arranging for her substitute in the cockpit, as per standard operating procedures. This led to an argument between the two pilots and the male pilot then locked her out when she went to the restroom. The Captain has reportedly been grounded and the airline is investigating the matter.

Aviation Authority Probes

A report in EconomyNext stated that the incident happened on a SriLankan Airlines UL 607 flight from Sydney to Colombo. The 10-hour journey started smoothly but soon, there were some tensions between the two pilots. The First Officer took a toilet break, leaving the Captain alone in the cockpit. 

According to protocol, a pilot taking a break must arrange for a substitute or cabin crew member to accompany the pilot flying. However, when the First Officer took a break and the crew member was yet to enter the cockpit, the Captain allegedly locked the door, becoming the only person on the flight deck.

What followed was a verbal altercation, with the Captain restricting the First Officer from entering the cockpit. According to reports, senior cabin crew members had to persuade the Captain via the communication link to let the First Officer in. The First Officer lodged a complaint in Colombo after landing.

The Sri Lanka Civil Aviation Authority is reportedly investigating the incident. The Airline said in a statement, "SriLankan Airlines confirms that an investigation is currently underway in accordance with civil aviation regulations regarding the incident on flight UL 607 from Sydney to Colombo today (14 October)."

The company added that they are “fully cooperating with the relevant authorities," and confirmed the captain has been grounded until the outcome of the investigation. The SriLankan Airlines spokesperson stressed that safety and compliance with all regulatory requirements remained their top priority.