AAL Shipping completed its first port call in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, delivering 64,000 freight tonnes of wind turbine components for the 50MW HayWind Mannar Wind Farm and establishing a new project cargo gateway into the country.
The operation involved two sailings from China aboard the 19,000-dwt S-Class vessels AAL Bangkok and AAL Nanjing. Together, the vessels transported components for ten complete 5MW wind turbines, including 100-metre-high towers, blades, nacelles, hubs and associated equipment.
The cargo movement was coordinated through a collaboration between AAL Middle East and the carrier’s Chief Representative in India. Despite challenging monsoon conditions, the two discharge operations at Trincomalee were completed safely and efficiently.
“Our maiden call to Trincomalee demonstrates AAL’s ability to deliver project cargoes directly to emerging destinations beyond our traditional trade routes,” said Karim Smaili, General Manager Middle East at AAL Shipping.
“As supply chains evolve, customers are increasingly seeking direct access to regional locations, and this project highlights our capability to support those requirements safely and efficiently. We are particularly proud that this shipment supports Sri Lanka’s renewable energy ambitions and long-term infrastructure development.”
The HayWind Mannar Wind Farm represents Sri Lanka’s largest private investment in wind power to date. Delivery of all ten turbines was completed by July 2026, with grid connection planned for March 2027. Once operational, the project is expected to reduce carbon emissions by approximately 186,000 tonnes annually.
Sri Lanka aims to generate 70 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, driving demand for specialised shipping and heavy lift logistics as new wind and solar projects are developed.
“Whether serving established project hubs or opening new cargo gateways, our focus remains on delivering reliable and efficient shipping solutions for complex cargoes,” said Vinay Agarwal, Commercial Representative India at AAL Shipping.
