Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a local airstrip into a key international access point managing over 4.6 million passengers each year.
Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its site – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, halting commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates domestic and overseas traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 check-in counters
– Terminal 2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) extends 2,743m, able to handling wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout ground handling, shopping, and aviation management.