Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a regional facility into a strategic international portal managing above 4.6 million passengers per annum.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its site – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – ensured convenient access.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with 6E airline initiating flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides domestic and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features eighteen registration desks
– Terminal 2: Includes 6 check-in counters
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (RWY 14) spans 2.7 kilometers, able to handling large planes.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Employment Generation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, shopping, and air traffic control.