Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), positioned in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named 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 processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal emerged as Odisha’s primary commercial aviation facility. Its position – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – provided strategic accessibility.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The coronavirus crisis temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with IndiGo launching flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s dual-terminal system effectively separates internal and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation
The principal airstrip (14/32) measures 2.7 kilometers, equipped for handling large planes.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout airport operations, shopping, and flight navigation.
