Sri Lanka, Sept. 29 -- The Cabinet has approved plans to increase the number of automated passenger clearance gates, or e-gates, at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) to 12 as part of efforts to improve passenger processing and accommodate growing traffic.

The decision expands on a Cabinet approval granted in May 2025 for the installation of four e-gates at the airport. Under the latest approval, eight additional automated clearance gates will be procured through formal procurement procedures.

The expansion is being implemented ahead of Sri Lanka's planned introduction of e-passports in 2027. The automated clearance system is expected to support faster passenger processing and improve efficiency at the country's main internationa...