# Biju Patnaik International Airport: An In-Depth Examination of Odisha’s Aviation Hub

BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a regional facility into a key international portal processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.

Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Founding and Formative Years

Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s primary civil air transport center. Its location – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – offered convenient access.

### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, suspending initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.

## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities

### Passenger Buildings

BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and international traffic:

– Terminal 1: Includes 18 check-in counters

– T2: Provides six registration desks

### Airstrip and Flight Control

The airport’s primary runway (RWY 14) spans 2,743m, able to accommodating wide-body aircraft.

Commercial Effects and Social Benefits

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Job Creation

AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities in terminal services, commerce, and air traffic control.