Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, serves 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 air hub has evolved from a provincial terminal into a strategic international portal processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Formative Years
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its location – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with IndiGo commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates national and overseas traffic:
– Terminal 1: Includes 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Offers six registration desks
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (RWY 14) spans 9,000 feet, able to accommodating wide-body aircraft.
Financial Influence and Social Benefits
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Job Creation
Official statistics show over eight thousand positions throughout airport operations, commerce, and air traffic control.