Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a regional facility into a strategic international access point handling over 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome was designated Odisha’s first commercial aviation facility. Its location – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – offered optimal connectivity.
### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, halting initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with 6E airline launching flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates internal and overseas traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Includes 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Includes six registration desks
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (14/32) measures 2.7 kilometers, able to managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Employment Generation
Airport Authority data indicates over eight thousand positions in terminal services, shopping, and air traffic control.