Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a regional facility into an essential international access point handling more than 4.6 million passengers each year.
## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its position – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – offered optimal connectivity.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, halting inaugural flights to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with 6E airline initiating flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Developments and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates domestic and global traffic:
– T1: Includes 18 passenger checkpoints
– T2: Includes six registration desks
### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) extends 2,743m, equipped for managing large planes.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Job Creation
Airport Authority data indicates 8,400 direct jobs across terminal services, commerce, and flight navigation.