Bandaranaike International Airport
About Bandaranaike International Airport
Overview
Bandaranaike International Airport lies approximately 35 kilometres north of central Colombo, in Katunayake, Western Province, Sri Lanka. It serves as the country's primary international gateway and the main hub for air travel across the island. Opened in 1964, it replaced earlier colonial-era facilities and was subsequently named after Prime Minister Solomon Bandaranaike.
Terminals & Runways
The airport operates a single main passenger terminal alongside a dedicated international departure terminal. One primary runway oriented roughly northeast–southwest handles all commercial traffic. The airport operates on a near-continuous basis, though certain overnight restrictions apply. A significant modernisation programme has expanded apron capacity and upgraded terminal facilities in recent years.
Airlines
SriLankan Airlines is the national carrier and primary hub operator at Bandaranaike, using Colombo as its main base for both regional and long-haul routes. FitsAir operates domestic and regional services. A broad range of international carriers connect the airport to hubs across the Middle East, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Europe, reflecting Colombo's position as a transit point between hemispheres.
Top routes from CMB
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Other airports in Sri Lanka
FAQ
Bandaranaike International Airport — frequently asked questions
- Where is Bandaranaike International Airport?
- Bandaranaike International Airport is located in Colombo, Sri Lanka (Asia), at coordinates 7.170°, 79.890°.
- What is the airport code for Bandaranaike International Airport?
- Its IATA code is CMB and its ICAO code is VCBI.
- What time zone is CMB in?
- Bandaranaike International Airport operates on Asia/Colombo local time.