[citation needed] AVM Premachandra joined the Sri Lanka Air Force as an Officer Cadet in the General Duties Pilot branch, May 25, 1979.

[4] For his gallant and selfless contributions and individual acts of bravery during the civil conflict, Air Vice Marshal Premachandra was awarded the prestigious Rana Wickrama Padakkama, Rana Sura Padakkama, and Desha Putra Sammanaya in addition to campaign and operational medals.

In 1986, the helicopter AVM Premachandra was captaining as part of a joint operation with the STF came under enemy fire near Karadiyanaru and Vavunativu.

In addition to the helicopter sustaining damages, he was the only one on board to be injured, yet he managed to fly the several soldiers in his charge back to safety.

[8] For his individual acts of bravery in the face of the enemy as a combat helicopter pilot AVM Premachandra was awarded the Rana Sura Padakkama.