BPD Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a regional facility into a strategic international portal processing above 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s primary civil air transport center. Its position – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, halting inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with 6E airline launching flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates domestic and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains eighteen registration desks
– T2: Provides six registration desks
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (14/32) measures 2.7 kilometers, equipped for handling jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
Airport Authority data indicates 8,400 direct jobs in terminal services, commerce, and flight navigation.