Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the previous Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a local airstrip into a strategic international portal handling more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its position – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-Pandemic Revival
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with 6E airline commencing flights to UAE, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates domestic and global traffic:
– T1: Includes eighteen registration desks
– T2: Includes six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, able to accommodating large planes.
Financial Influence and Public Value
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Job Creation
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs across terminal services, shopping, and air traffic control.