Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a vital infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a local airstrip into a strategic international portal handling above 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its position – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured convenient access.
### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, pausing initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with 6E airline launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and overseas traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Provides 6 passenger checkpoints
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 9,000 feet, equipped for accommodating wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Public Value
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s tourist arrivals doubled to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports over eight thousand positions in terminal services, shopping, and aviation management.
