Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a vital infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a local airstrip into an essential international access point processing over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its location – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – provided strategic accessibility.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, pausing commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with 6E airline launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides national and global traffic:
– T1: Contains 18 check-in counters
– Terminal 2: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) measures 2.7 kilometers, capable of managing large planes.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Job Creation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs in ground handling, shopping, and aviation management.
