Colombo Airport Terminal

Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), also known as Colombo Airport or Katunayake Airport, is Sri Lanka’s largest and primary international gateway. Located in Katunayake, 32.5 kilometers north of Colombo, it serves as a hub for SriLankan Airlines and connects millions of passengers annually to destinations across Asia, Europe, Oceania, the Middle East, and North America. Below is a detailed overview of its history, terminal facilities, services, and travel tips.

Historical Background

BIA was originally built as a Royal Air Force base during World War II and later converted into Sri Lanka’s first international airport in 1967, replacing Ratmalana Airport. Named after former Prime Minister S.W.R.D. Bandaranaike, the airport has undergone several expansions to accommodate increased passenger traffic. Today, it serves over 10 million passengers annually and is certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Sri Lanka.

For aviation enthusiasts, BIA’s history as a former military base adds a unique touch to its modern-day operations.

Terminal Overview

BIA currently operates three terminals:

Terminal 1: Opened in 1967, it handles all international flights until Terminal 2 opens in 2025. It features 12 gates and includes duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, and essential passenger services.
Terminal 2: Expected to open in 2025 with advanced facilities like vertical separation of arrivals/departures and Airbus A380-compatible gates.
Terminal 3: Dedicated to domestic flights since its opening in 2012.

The airport also has cargo terminals equipped for freight handling and special facilities for refrigerated goods.

Facilities by Levels

First Level (Arrivals Area)

Services: Baggage claim, customs, ground transportation (bus/taxi/car rental), banks with currency exchange counters, ATMs, food concessions.
Special Features:

Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout designated areas. Connect easily upon arrival to check emails or browse social media.
Currency Exchange & ATMs: Multiple banks offer competitive rates for currency exchange. ATMs dispense local and foreign currency but may charge higher fees than banks.

Exchange only small amounts at the airport for immediate needs; city banks often offer better rates.

Upper Level (Departures Area)

Services: Boarding gates (6–14), duty-free shopping (electronics, tea, perfumes), dining options (local and international cuisine), pharmacy services.
Special Features:

- Shopping: Duty-free shops offer competitive prices on electronics and local products like Ceylon tea and spices.
- Food & Beverages: Options range from quick snacks at cafes to sit-down meals at restaurants. Bars and lounges provide a relaxing environment before departure.

Sri Lankan specialties like "kottu roti" at airport restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.

VIP Lounges

BIA offers several premium lounges:

SriLankan Airlines Serendib Lounge: Features spa services, showers, premium food and beverages.
Lotus First Class Lounge: Ideal for business travelers with printers and copiers available.
Araliya Business Class Lounge: Offers alcoholic drinks and Wi-Fi.
The Emirates Lounge: Exclusive to Emirates passengers with complimentary dining options.

All lounges operate 24/7 and are non-smoking facilities.

If you’re flying business or first class with major airlines like Emirates or SriLankan Airlines, lounge access is often included in your ticket.

Additional Services

Nursing Mothers Station: A dedicated room with comfortable chairs, sinks, changing tables, TVs, and play areas for children.
Restrooms: While available throughout the airport, restrooms are often criticized for poor maintenance. Carry essentials like tissues or hand sanitizer for convenience.
Medical Center: Located near baggage claim for emergencies.
Pet Relief Area: Offers adoption, boarding, grooming services alongside travel assistance for pets.

Transit Hotel

The Serenediva Transit Hotel provides comfortable accommodations for passengers with long layovers or early connections. Located within Terminal 1 near immigration counters.

Popular Flights

BIA connects Sri Lanka to major destinations worldwide:

London (Heathrow): ~11 hours via SriLankan Airlines or British Airways.
Dubai: ~4.5 hours via Emirates or FlyDubai.
Singapore: ~4 hours via Singapore Airlines or AirAsia.
Doha: ~5 hours via Qatar Airways.

Regional routes within South Asia are served by carriers like Jet Airways and Indian Airlines.

Travel Tips

- Lost & Found Services: Lost items can be claimed at the designated counter by filling out a form with contact details and item descriptions.

- Smoking Areas: Smoking is prohibited inside the terminal but designated areas are available outside.

- Safety Tip: In case of emergencies in Colombo or at the airport, dial 119 for police or medical assistance.