Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a provincial terminal into a key international portal handling more than 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Initial Growth
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its position – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided optimal connectivity.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting inaugural flights to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. However, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with 6E airline commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates domestic and overseas traffic:
– T1: Contains 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Provides 6 check-in counters
### Runway and Aviation Navigation
The airport’s primary runway (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, capable of managing large planes.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, commerce, and air traffic control.
