Turkish Airlines agrees to compensate champion Pathirage for equipment damage

Turkish Airlines has reached an agreement to compensate Sri Lankan javelin champion Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage for damage sustained by his sports equipment during his return flight to Sri Lanka on September 15.

Pathirage, who secured the gold medal in javelin throw at the World Athletics Ultimate Championship held in Hungary, discovered his javelins had been damaged when he arrived at his destination. The incident prompted the athlete to lodge a complaint with the airline regarding the handling of his equipment during transit.

Following negotiations, Turkish Airlines has agreed to provide compensation to Pathirage for the damaged javelins. The resolution comes as a positive outcome for the champion athlete, who represents Sri Lanka at international sporting competitions.

The development highlights ongoing concerns about the handling of specialised sporting equipment by international airlines during transit. Pathirage's case underscores the importance of proper care and packaging procedures for high-value athletic gear transported on international flights.