BPD Airport (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a provincial terminal into an essential international portal managing over 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s first commercial aviation facility. Its site – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-Pandemic Revival
The global health emergency temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates internal and overseas traffic:
– T1: Features eighteen registration desks
– Terminal 2: Provides 6 check-in counters
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 2,743m, able to managing wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Public Value
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Job Creation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs across ground handling, commerce, and air traffic control.
