Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a regional facility into a strategic international access point handling above 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its position – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – offered convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with 6E airline launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates national and overseas traffic:
– T1: Includes 18 check-in counters
– T2: Provides six registration desks
### Runway and Flight Control
The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) extends 9,000 feet, equipped for managing wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show over eight thousand positions in terminal services, commerce, and aviation management.