Air Vice Marshal HSS Thuyacontha WWV, RWP and two Bars, RSP and Bar, USP, MMSc (Strat Stu - China), MSc (Def Stu) in Mgt, MSc (Def & Strat Stu), fndu (China), psc, the newly appointed Southern Air Commander, who is also the Base Commander of Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) Base Katunayake assumed the office of Sothern Air Command on 10 November 2020, as the first Southern Air Commander after a brief religious ceremony at SLAF Base Katunayake.

On arrival at the Southern Air Command office premises, the Base Commander SLAF Base Ratmalana Air Commodore RS Wickckramaratne, Commanding Officers of all formations and, other officers welcomed the new Southern Air Commander at the entrance and accompanied him to his office.

Symbolizing the formal inauguration of the new office, the Southern Air Commander lighted the oil lamp in accordance with traditions and formally signed an official document.

The brief ceremony of the day concluded with a tree planting and a group photo being taken.