Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has evolved from a local airstrip into a key international portal managing above 4.6 million passengers annually.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the air terminal emerged as Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its site – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided optimal connectivity.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 witnessed a robust resurgence with India’s largest carrier launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates national and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Provides 6 check-in counters
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (RWY 14) spans 9,000 feet, capable of managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Public Value
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Employment Generation
Airport Authority data indicates 8,400 direct jobs throughout ground handling, commerce, and aviation management.
