Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Named after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a regional facility into a key international gateway processing above 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its position – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided convenient access.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides national and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 passenger checkpoints
– T2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) measures 9,000 feet, equipped for accommodating jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 32 lakh in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities throughout terminal services, retail, and flight navigation.