Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a local airstrip into a strategic international portal handling more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its site – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered strategic accessibility.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, halting inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with 6E airline initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Includes 6 check-in counters
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, able to managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs throughout airport operations, commerce, and air traffic control.
