Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical infrastructure pillar for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a regional facility into a key international access point handling above 4.6 million passengers each year.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its location – 3000 meters from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with IndiGo commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates internal and overseas traffic:
– T1: Features eighteen registration desks
– T2: Offers 6 check-in counters
### Airstrip and Aviation Navigation
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 2,743m, able to managing jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Social Benefits
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Work Opportunities
Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities across ground handling, commerce, and flight navigation.