Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Named after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a provincial terminal into a key international access point managing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s first commercial aviation facility. Its position – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured optimal connectivity.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, suspending initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides national and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 check-in counters
– Terminal 2: Offers six registration desks
### Runway and Aviation Navigation
The principal airstrip (14/32) extends 9,000 feet, equipped for managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Job Creation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, retail, and flight navigation.