Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a regional facility into a key international access point processing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Formative Years
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s first public flight infrastructure. Its position – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – offered strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with 6E airline commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Developments and Operational Capabilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates national and overseas traffic:
– T1: Includes 18 check-in counters
– T2: Includes six registration desks
### Airstrip and Aviation Navigation
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) extends 2,743m, capable of handling wide-body aircraft.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Job Creation
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs across ground handling, commerce, and air traffic control.