BPD Airport (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a vital infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a local airstrip into a strategic international gateway processing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its location – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – ensured convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Post-Pandemic Revival
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, pausing commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with 6E airline commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Facilities and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates internal and global traffic:
– T1: Contains eighteen registration desks
– International Terminal: Provides six registration desks
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) spans 2,743m, able to handling wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Public Value
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Job Creation
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs throughout terminal services, retail, and aviation management.
