Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical infrastructure pillar for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has developed from a regional facility into an essential international access point handling over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Initial Growth
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s primary commercial aviation facility. Its location – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured strategic accessibility.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a robust resurgence with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides internal and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– T2: Offers six registration desks
### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) measures 2,743m, equipped for managing large planes.
Financial Influence and Public Value
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.
### Job Creation
AAI reports over eight thousand positions across ground handling, retail, and flight navigation.
