Bandaranaike International Airport

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is not merely the main air gateway to Sri Lanka, but the first and most vivid impression of this exotic island. It is here that travellers first experience the unique atmosphere of Ceylon, where the humid tropical air mingles with the scent of spices. Located near the country's largest city, Colombo, the airport serves as the starting point for exploring ancient temples, tea plantations, and endless beaches, welcoming flights from all over the world.

Bandaranaike Airport provides passengers with a full range of services for a comfortable stay. Immediately upon arrival, you can exchange currency at the official rate, purchase a SIM card from a local operator, or book a taxi to your hotel. Travellers have access to numerous Duty Free shops, cafes serving national and European cuisine, as well as bank branches and luggage storage facilities. The airport acts as the hub for the national carrier SriLankan Airlines, ensuring convenient connections and a wide flight network to countries in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

To contact airport representatives, obtain the latest flight information, or resolve any issues, you can use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.airport.lk
• Inquiry Service Phone: +94 11 226 4444
• Address: Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake, Sri Lanka
• Email: For official inquiries and feedback, it is recommended to use the contact forms available on the airport's website.
• Social Media: Current information and news can be found on the airport's official social media pages, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, please first contact the Lost & Found service of your airline at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, you can contact the main airport inquiry service number.

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) is located approximately 35 kilometres north of the centre of Colombo. There are several ways to reach it, each offering different advantages depending on your budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Taxi, Tuk-tuk, or Ride-hailing Apps. This is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. The journey via the Colombo-Katunayake Expressway takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your starting point and traffic conditions. You can use a standard taxi (it is recommended to agree on the price in advance or insist on using the meter), order a car via apps like Uber or PickMe (the local equivalent), or hire a tuk-tuk for short distances to the highway. The cost of a taxi ride will be the highest, but it guarantees comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Public Transport: Bus. The most budget-friendly option is the bus. Route No. 187 operates between the central bus station in Pettah, Colombo, and the airport. There are ordinary buses that take the old road (travel time about 1.5-2 hours) as well as air-conditioned express buses that use the toll highway (about 1 hour). This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers, but be prepared that buses can be crowded during peak hours.

Rail Connection. Near the airport lies the Katunayake Airport railway station, located on the Colombo — Puttalam line. Trains depart from Colombo Fort station. This can be an interesting experience and a way to avoid traffic jams; however, you will need to walk or take a short tuk-tuk ride from the station to the terminal. It is worth checking the train schedule in advance, as they run less frequently than buses.

Car Rental and Parking. If you are travelling around Sri Lanka in a rented car, you will easily reach the airport by following the signs. The airport provides zones for short-term and long-term parking where you can leave your vehicle. This option ensures maximum flexibility but requires confidence in driving within local traffic conditions.

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) features a simple and clear structure, making navigation easy for travellers. Major international flights are handled in one main passenger terminal. There are also separate buildings for domestic flights and cargo operations, but tourists arriving from abroad or departing will primarily use the main terminal.

The airport layout is logical and intuitive. The terminal is divided into two main levels: the Departures area is located on the upper floor, and the Arrivals area is on the lower floor. Upon arriving at the airport for departure, you immediately enter a spacious check-in hall. After receiving your boarding pass and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed through passport control and security screening, after which they enter the secure area featuring Duty Free shops, restaurants, and boarding gates. The Arrivals area includes corridors leading to immigration counters, the baggage claim hall, and the customs zone, after which passengers exit into the general meeting hall.

Since all international operations are concentrated in one building, transfers between terminals for international transit passengers are not required—everything takes place within a single complex. Navigation is simplified thanks to signs in English, Sinhala, and Tamil. Follow them to find your boarding gate, the nearest restroom, or the food court. Some gates are located at a considerable distance, so allow an additional 10-15 minutes for walking.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the departure of an international flight. The time required for check-in and screening can vary significantly depending on the season and time of day. During peak hours, queues for passport control and security checks can be quite long. On average, the entire process from entering the building to reaching the departure zone takes about 45-60 minutes, but it is always better to have extra time to visit the shops or relax before your flight without rushing.

The history of Sri Lanka's main airport, located near the city of Colombo, began long before its transformation into a civil hub. Originally, it was a British Royal Air Force airfield (RAF Negombo), built during World War II and playing a vital strategic role in the region. After the country gained independence, in 1957, the airfield was handed over to the government of Ceylon but continued to be used by the British RAF until the 1960s.

The official opening of the civil international airport, named Katunayake, took place in 1967. This was made possible through financial aid from Canada, which funded the construction of a terminal that was modern for its time. In 1970, the airport was named after Solomon Bandaranaike, the country's former Prime Minister. Later, in 1995, the name of his wife, Sirimavo Bandaranaike, who also led the government, was added, and the airport received its current full name — Bandaranaike International Airport.

One of the most challenging periods in the airport's history occurred in July 2001, when it was subjected to an attack. This event caused significant damage to infrastructure and the national carrier. However, it also served as a powerful catalyst for radical modernization and the implementation of the highest security standards, which remain in effect today. The subsequent years were dedicated to active restoration and expansion.

Major modernization began in the 2000s. A new pier with eight aerobridges was constructed, significantly enhancing passenger comfort. In the following years, the infrastructure was continuously improved: departure and arrival areas were expanded, and the runway was upgraded to accommodate the world's largest aircraft, such as the Airbus A380. Today, Bandaranaike Airport is a modern complex that continues to develop, with plans for the construction of a second terminal to increase capacity and further strengthen its role as a key transport hub in South Asia.

Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) offers a wide range of services to make your wait for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. In the terminal, you will find various cafes and restaurants where you can try both local cuisine and familiar international snacks. For shopping enthusiasts, numerous stores are open, including Duty Free zones with a large selection of souvenirs, cosmetics, and Ceylon tea.

For passengers preferring privacy and enhanced comfort, business lounges and VIP lounges are available. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, work, or enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special charging stations are provided for gadgets, so you will always remain connected.

Financial matters can be easily resolved right at the airport: bank branches, 24-hour currency exchange counters, and ATMs are at your service. To ensure passenger safety and health, a medical centre is in operation, ready to provide first aid if necessary.

The airport is well-equipped for travellers with children. There are mother and child rooms where you can take care of your baby in a peaceful environment. For passengers with reduced mobility, special assistance is provided, including escorts and wheelchairs upon prior request. If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travellers, conference rooms and business services are available, allowing you to hold a meeting or work while waiting for your flight.

At Bandaranaike International Airport, you will not go hungry. There are options to suit every taste and budget — from a quick snack before departure to a leisurely dinner in a restaurant. Dining establishments are located both in the public area and in the departure zone after passport control.

In the area before passport control (landside), the selection is generally more modest, represented mainly by small cafes and fast-food outlets. This is a convenient option if you have arrived at the airport early or are seeing off friends. Here you can drink a cup of famous Ceylon tea or coffee and have a light snack. Prices in this zone are typically slightly lower than in the departure zone.

The main variety awaits passengers in the departure zone (airside). After completing all formalities, you will enter a spacious hall housing restaurants, bars, and coffee shops from international chains such as The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, Barista, Burger King, and Pizza Hut. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a final cup of aromatic coffee or have a full meal before a long flight.

Establishments offering local cuisine deserve special attention. Do not miss the chance to try Sri Lankan delicacies one last time. Look for restaurants featuring rice and curry, kottu (chopped flatbread with vegetables and meat), or hoppers on their menu. This is a wonderful conclusion to your journey around the island. Many places also offer a wide selection of fresh juices made from exotic fruits.

Travellers with specific dietary preferences will also find suitable options. Sri Lankan cuisine is rich in vegetarian and vegan dishes, so finding them on the menus of local restaurants will not be difficult. Halal food is also widely available. For gluten-free options, it is best to check directly with the staff of the chosen establishment. Most restaurants and cafes in the departure zone operate 24/7, adjusting to the schedule of international flights.

To ensure your journey through Sri Lanka's main airport goes smoothly, follow these tips. Proper planning helps avoid stress and saves time for more pleasant activities than waiting in queues.

Arrival Time at the Airport: We strongly recommend arriving at Bandaranaike Airport at least 3-4 hours before your international flight departure. Sometimes long queues can form at the terminal entrance, as well as at check-in counters and passport control. Allowing extra time will enable you to complete all formalities without rushing.

Check-in and Security: The screening procedure can be quite thorough. Be prepared for several stages of checks, including luggage scanning at the terminal entrance. During the main security check, you will be asked to remove all electronic devices and liquids from your hand luggage. To speed up the process, prepare these items in advance and follow the instructions of the security staff.

Seat Selection: If your airline allows you to select a seat during online check-in, take advantage of this opportunity. Window seats will offer you an unforgettable farewell view of the emerald island, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage: Standard international rules apply here: liquids are allowed in containers not exceeding 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Ensure there are no prohibited items (scissors, knives, etc.) in your carry-on. If you are carrying famous Ceylon tea or spices, check your airline's rules for carrying them in hand luggage to avoid issues.

For Transit Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Colombo, check in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Generally, when flying with the same airline, luggage is transferred automatically. The airport's transit zone offers shops, restaurants, and business lounges for a comfortable wait.

Customs Control: When leaving the country, customs control is usually quick. However, if you are exporting expensive goods, antiques, or large sums of currency, they should be declared. Keep receipts for valuable purchases — this can simplify communication with customs officers.

Saving Time and Money: Check in for your flight online to save time at the airport. To avoid paying for excess weight, weigh your suitcases before leaving your hotel. Exchanging currency or booking a taxi is often better done outside the airport, so explore your options in advance.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed or cancelled, immediately contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be entitled to vouchers for food and drinks, and for long delays, hotel accommodation. It is also useful to have your insurance company's contact details at hand.