Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), positioned in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a local airstrip into an essential international portal handling over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its location – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – provided strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier initiating flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates national and global traffic:
– Terminal 1: Includes 18 passenger checkpoints
– T2: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 9,000 feet, equipped for managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Job Creation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout airport operations, commerce, and air traffic control.