# Biju Patnaik International Airport: An In-Depth Examination of Odisha’s Air Transport Nexus

Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a local airstrip into a strategic international access point managing above 4.6 million passengers per annum.

## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Establishment and Formative Years

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its site – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – ensured strategic accessibility.

### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, halting inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with IndiGo commencing flights to UAE, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Developments and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Facilities

BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides national and overseas traffic:

– T1: Includes eighteen registration desks

– T2: Includes 6 check-in counters

### Runway and Air Traffic Management

The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) measures 2.7 kilometers, equipped for accommodating large planes.

Commercial Effects and Community Advantages

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.

### Work Opportunities

Airport Authority data indicates 8,400 direct jobs across airport operations, retail, and aviation management.