Bandaranaike International Airport Guide
CMB/VCBILocation
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB / VCBI) is located in Katunayake, just 30 kilometers north of Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Positioned near the Indian Ocean, the airport offers easy access to popular attractions such as the historic Colombo Fort and the cultural wonders of the UNESCO-listed Sacred City of Anuradhapura. It's an ideal gateway for travelers exploring Sri Lanka’s rich history, beautiful beaches, and wildlife.
Passenger Traffic in Bandaranaike International Airport CMB/VCBI
Passenger traffic at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) has been steadily recovering post-pandemic, with a remarkable 267.5% growth compared to 2021. The airport is projected to reach an annual passenger volume of 10 million by 2024 as travel demand continues to rebound.
Airport Facilities at Bandaranaike International Airport CMB/VCBI
Lounges: Six lounges,
Shopping: Duty-free shopping,
Dining: Restaurants,
Currency exchange: Currency exchange counters,
Tourist information: Tourist information centers,
Services: Free trolleys, free medical facilities, assistance for differently-abled/elderly passengers, luggage storage and lockers, lost and found baggage services, pharmacy, post office, parking,
Sleeping pods: Sleeping pods in the Transit Area for travelers needing a quick rest between flights,
Cargo handling: Cargo handling services with a capacity of 250,000 MT,
Warehouses: Warehouses covering a combined area of 8,690.8 m² in Terminals I, II, and III,
Freezer and cold room: Freezer and cold room facilities.
Located about 30 km north of Colombo in Katunayake, Bandaranaike International Airport is Sri Lanka's primary international gateway. Established in 1967, it was renamed after the former Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike. The airport features three terminals: Terminal 1 for international flights, Terminal 2 under expansion for increased capacity, and Terminal 3 for domestic travel. It handles over 9 million passengers annually (pre-pandemic), playing a vital role in connecting Sri Lanka to global destinations.
Terminals :
Bandaranaike International Airport has three terminals. Terminal 1 serves as the main international terminal, accommodating 12 gates for international flights. Terminal 2 is under construction, aiming to significantly expand capacity with eco-friendly features, 96 check-in counters, and advanced passenger facilities. Terminal 3 handles domestic flights, catering to local travelers.
Airport Size :
The airport spans approximately 400 hectares (988 acres) in Katunayake, Sri Lanka, serving as the country's primary international gateway.
Airlines Operating in Bandaranaike International Airport CMB/VCBI
- • Emirates
- • Qatar Airways
- • Air India
- • Etihad Airways
- • IndiGo
- • SriLankan Airlines
- • Singapore Airlines
- • Turkish Airlines
- • Gulf Air
- • China Southern Airlines
- • Thai Airways
- • Air China
- • Malaysia Airlines
- • Cathay Pacific
- • Oman Air
- • Korean Air
- • and more