In aviation, technical precision and responsibility are part of everyday life. The cost of errors is high, which is why specialists who can detect issues before they become dangerous play a critical role. One such expert is Ganishka Ch. Perera Hewa Arachchilage, an aviation engineer from Sri Lanka who now works at the FL Technics division in Kaunas, Lithuania.
Ganishka specializes in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) — one of the most essential processes in aircraft maintenance. It allows for the detection of defects or material damage without dismantling the aircraft structure, often revealing issues invisible to the naked eye.
While work brought him to Lithuania, Ganishka found much more than professional challenges. He quickly integrated into his team, made friends, and adapted to a new lifestyle — one that now includes aviation, badminton, mushroom picking, and even skiing for the first time. In this interview, he shares his experiences of living in Lithuania and working in the aviation industry.
How did your journey into aviation begin? What inspired you to choose this path?
In school, my best friend’s father was an aircraft engineer. While my friend dreamed of becoming a doctor, I was the opposite — I wanted to be an engineer. When his father noticed my interest, he encouraged me to consider aviation.
Although I had been awarded a state-funded spot to study physics, I chose what truly interested me — I enrolled in a private program for aircraft maintenance engineering. I dedicated a lot of time and effort to my studies and was thrilled to receive an award for the best academic performance. At the same time, I began learning about Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), which became a turning point in my career decision.
After graduation, I started working as an aircraft mechanic with SriLankan Airlines’ base maintenance team, but soon moved into the NDT team. That’s when I realized I wanted to continue developing my skills in this field.
Can you tell us more about Non-Destructive Testing and why it’s so important in aviation?
As the name suggests, NDT is a way of identifying structural defects without damaging the aircraft. Aircraft endure enormous stress, so over time, microcracks, corrosion, or other damage can appear — often undetectable through regular inspection.
NDT uses a range of methods: ultrasound, eddy current, thermography, X-ray testing, magnetic particle, and penetrant testing. Each technique has its own applications and advantages, and we could easily dedicate a full interview just to those (smiles). But all of them serve one purpose: ensuring the maximum safety of the aircraft and preventing serious failures or even disasters. NDT specialists are often called the last line of defense because we can detect what others can’t. Even a 2-millimeter crack can ground an aircraft and require major repairs.
Have you had any inspections in your career that you’ll never forget?
Yes, I clearly remember one. During an inspection, I found a defect that exceeded the manufacturer’s allowable limits. The aircraft was already prepped for takeoff — passengers were seated, cargo was loaded, everything was ready. But because of what I found, the aircraft had to be stopped immediately.
The situation was tense — passengers had to be deboarded, accommodations arranged, and the airline suffered significant financial losses. Many were frustrated and upset at the time. But in aviation, safety is always the top priority. Even if such decisions are inconvenient, they prevent much more serious consequences.
What led you to leave Sri Lanka and join FL Technics in Lithuania? How was the transition?
First, I’m very grateful to my manager, Ovidijus Ručinskas, and the HR team. They helped with all the paperwork and my relocation. I remember being surprised during the interview when I was asked if I really wanted to travel halfway around the world just for a job. Without hesitation, I said — yes, I really want to try.
I arrived in Lithuania in January 2023, right in the middle of winter. It was my first time seeing snow! I went from 35°C heat to sub-zero temperatures overnight. So my first shock wasn’t cultural — it was climatic. I’ll never forget my first morning: walking on snowy sidewalks, trying not to slip, but falling anyway — and realizing it’s still dark at 8 a.m. on the way to work.
Despite these challenges, my colleagues at FL Technics helped me adapt quickly — not only at work, but also in everyday life.
What are the main differences you’ve noticed between working in Sri Lanka and Lithuania?
The biggest difference is work–life balance. At FL Technics, there’s a strong focus not only on physical but also on emotional well-being. One of the biggest advantages is the flexible approach to work, which allows more time for family, professional development, and training.
The company invests in training and follows technological trends, which makes work more efficient. I worked in Sri Lanka for 12 years, and there was a major shortage of NDT specialists, so workdays were long and workloads heavy. But that experience made me stronger — I learned to handle pressure and gained experience working with various types of aircraft.
What do you enjoy doing in your free time in Lithuania? Have you discovered any new hobbies?
I love this topic! In Sri Lanka, cricket is the most popular sport, while in Lithuania, it’s basketball. Since I don’t play basketball, I joined a badminton club in Vilnius. It was a great decision — I made many friends, and we travel to tournaments and go on trips together.
I also tried skiing for the first time at Liepkalnis. I fell a lot at first, but eventually learned, and it was an unforgettable experience. I enjoy traveling around Lithuania, hiking in nature, and even mushroom picking. Lithuania leaves the impression of a clean, calm, and orderly country with a Western quality of life.
What advice would you give to those dreaming of an international aviation career?
Aviation is a very broad field. Every detail matters, and each stage demands complete focus and dedication. My most important advice to aspiring professionals is: never stop learning and never give up.
Be curious, pursue higher qualifications, and gather as much diverse experience as possible. Once you have both the knowledge and the hands-on experience, career opportunities will open worldwide. From my own experience, I can say that NDT specialists are in very high demand across the globe.
Earlier you mentioned that explaining all the NDT methods would require a separate interview, but could you briefly summarize them for those who are curious?
Of course! Here’s a short overview:
– Ultrasonic Testing (UT): High-frequency sound waves are sent into the material. Reflections from internal defects or boundaries help determine the location and size of flaws.
– Eddy Current Testing (ECT): Used on electrically conductive materials. Electromagnetic currents are induced, and any disturbances in the current flow can indicate defects.
– Thermography: Uses infrared cameras to detect temperature variations on the surface. Internal defects, like layer separations, affect how heat flows through a material.
– Radiographic Testing (X-ray): X-rays pass through the material. Cracks or corrosion absorb the rays differently than solid areas, making defects visible on an image.
– Magnetic Particle Testing (MT): Applied to ferromagnetic materials. Magnetic fields are used, and around surface cracks, leakage fields appear, revealed by magnetic particles.
– Penetrant Testing (PT): Fluorescent dye is applied to the surface. It seeps into surface defects, and under UV light, reveals even small cracks.
