Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has evolved from a provincial terminal into a key international gateway processing more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its position – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, halting initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with IndiGo launching flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates national and overseas traffic:
– T1: Features 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Provides 6 check-in counters
### Runway and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) extends 2,743m, able to accommodating large planes.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports over eight thousand positions in airport operations, shopping, and air traffic control.
