Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Named after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a local airstrip into an essential international gateway managing over 4.6 million passengers each year.
Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s primary civil air transport center. Its site – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided optimal connectivity.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery
The coronavirus crisis temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier initiating flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides national and global traffic:
– Terminal 1: Includes 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 2,743m, equipped for managing jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.
### Work Opportunities
Airport Authority data indicates over eight thousand positions across ground handling, shopping, and aviation management.