Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a regional facility into a strategic international access point managing more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Formative Years
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s primary civil air transport center. Its position – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – offered convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates national and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features eighteen registration desks
– Terminal 2: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints
### Landing Strip and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) spans 9,000 feet, capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft.
Commercial Effects and Social Benefits
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show 8.4K employment opportunities throughout terminal services, shopping, and aviation management.