Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a vital infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has developed from a regional facility into an essential international portal managing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its position – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, suspending commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Contains eighteen registration desks
– Terminal 2: Offers 6 passenger checkpoints
### Landing Strip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) measures 2,743m, able to accommodating jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Public Value
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs across ground handling, retail, and air traffic control.
