CMB Bandaranaike new terminal expansion when does it open how is it
Sri Lanka announced the CMB airport terminal expansion is restarting Aviation Week article said 2026 New gates duty free changes capacity for the visa free tourism boom Has anyone actually flown through recently noticed any differences immigration speed change with all the new visa free arrivals Crowds versus pre 2026
4 Answers from travellers
Update from someone who delivers guests to CMB daily The new Terminal 2 construction has restarted but completion is still 18 to 24 months out At present everything operates through the original terminal which has been refreshed with better signage and an upgraded duty free section Immigration since 25 May visa free Surprisingly faster not slower Counters opened additional channels and the e gate (for eligible nationalities) processes in 90 seconds Average passenger spends 15 minutes from plane to taxi versus 35 minutes pre 2026 Departure side did not change much same somewhat dated layout New duty free has a real Ceylon tea boutique pavilion and a Dilmah cafe Lounge wise NextGen and Palmyrah are still the only premium options
SriLankan Airlines lounge is decent for business class passengers economy can buy access at 50 USD which is good value if you have a 5 plus hour layover
Pre order duty free at colomboduty free dot lk before flight for collection at departure 10 percent discount versus airport counter prices
Bring carry on shopping budget the airside gem stalls at CMB are tax free but not all dealers are licensed verify NGJA certification before buying anything serious
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