Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Named after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a regional facility into an essential international portal handling over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its site – 3000 meters from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided strategic accessibility.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a robust resurgence with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides national and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 passenger checkpoints
– International Terminal: Offers six registration desks
### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) extends 9,000 feet, capable of accommodating jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, associated with BBI’s expanded route map.
### Job Creation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout airport operations, shopping, and air traffic control.