Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a regional facility into a key international access point handling above 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its location – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – offered strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates domestic and overseas traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features eighteen registration desks
– International Terminal: Provides 6 passenger checkpoints
### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation
The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) measures 2,743m, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Work Opportunities
Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities throughout terminal services, commerce, and flight navigation.
