## Biju Patnaik International Airport: A Comprehensive Analysis of Odisha’s Aviation Hub

BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a regional facility into an essential international access point processing more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.

## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Founding and Formative Years

Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its site – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured convenient access.

### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, pausing initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with IndiGo launching flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Developments and Technical Abilities

### Terminal Infrastructure

BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates national and overseas traffic:

– T1: Includes 18 check-in counters

– Terminal 2: Includes 6 check-in counters

### Airstrip and Aviation Navigation

The principal airstrip (14/32) spans 2,743m, equipped for accommodating jumbo jets.

Financial Influence and Social Benefits

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.

### Work Opportunities

AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, retail, and air traffic control.