Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a vital infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a regional facility into a strategic international portal handling over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Formative Years
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its position – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, halting commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier launching flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Contains 18 check-in counters
– T2: Includes six registration desks
### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (RWY 14) measures 2.7 kilometers, equipped for managing jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs in terminal services, shopping, and flight navigation.
