Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a local airstrip into an essential international portal handling more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its position – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, suspending commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s dual-terminal system efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 check-in counters
– T2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) measures 2.7 kilometers, able to accommodating wide-body aircraft.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
Official statistics show over eight thousand positions in ground handling, shopping, and aviation management.