Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), positioned in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a provincial terminal into a strategic international portal handling above 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its position – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with IndiGo commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system efficiently segregates internal and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– T2: Includes 6 check-in counters
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (14/32) measures 9,000 feet, equipped for accommodating large planes.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s tourist arrivals doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities across terminal services, commerce, and air traffic control.
