Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a vital transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a local airstrip into a strategic international portal processing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s primary commercial aviation facility. Its site – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – ensured convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates domestic and international traffic:
– T1: Includes 18 check-in counters
– T2: Offers 6 check-in counters
### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) extends 9,000 feet, capable of handling large planes.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout terminal services, shopping, and flight navigation.