Exploring Diverse Disaster Experiences of Sri Lanka Air Force Personnel Undergoing Training in Disaster Management

This study explores the diverse disaster experiences of Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) personnel undergoing disaster management training. Using a qualitative exploratory design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 20 trainees aged 18–45 years, representing both officers and other ranks with service periods ranging from 1 to 16+ years. Participants reported exposure to both natural disasters (64%), including floods, droughts, lightning, and fires, and human-influenced crises (36%) such as the Easter Sunday attacks, political unrest, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Floods were the most frequently experienced disaster (70%). Nationally significant events such as the Easter Sunday attacks and the Aragalaya protests reflected the multifaceted nature of disaster exposure. Findings revealed the dual role of SLAF personnel as both responders and victims, intensifying psychosocial strain. Results highlight the importance of embedding psychosocial resilience, stress management, and mental health awareness within SLAF training curricula. In line with international disaster definitions (IASC, 2007), this study categorizes COVID-19 as a human-influenced crisis due to its extensive social, economic, and psychological consequences that were shaped by human systems and responses. These insights can guide policy reforms and training curricula that prioritize responder mental health.