Chandran Rutnam is a distinguished figure in both the aviation and film industries. Born and educated in Sri Lanka, Chandran moved to Los Angeles where he studied at the University of Southern California Film School and the San Fernando Valley College of Law. With a remarkable career spanning 42 years in Hollywood, he has been associated with all major film studios and has line produced films across multiple countries, including Malaysia, Philippines, India, Borneo, Indonesia, Thailand, Maldives, and Sri Lanka.
Chandran’s passion for aviation was ignited during the filming of “Iron Triangle,” a Vietnam War film utilizing several Air Force helicopters. In 1993, he co-founded Lion Air, a scheduled domestic airline that played a crucial role during Sri Lanka’s civil conflict, providing vital connections between Colombo and Jaffna with up to 16 flights a day. Subsequently, in 1995, Lion Air acquired AAC, the premier flying school in Sri Lanka. Chandran leadership, passion and vision ensures the continuous growth and innovation of AAC.