Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), positioned in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has developed from a regional facility into an essential international gateway processing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its site – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered optimal connectivity.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending inaugural flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates domestic and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Includes eighteen registration desks
– T2: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Aviation Navigation
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) extends 2.7 kilometers, capable of managing jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Work Opportunities
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities in terminal services, retail, and flight navigation.