Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a vital transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Named after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a regional facility into an essential international gateway managing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Initial Growth
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal emerged as Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its location – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-Pandemic Revival
The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a robust resurgence with India’s largest carrier launching flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:
– T1: Includes eighteen registration desks
– T2: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (14/32) extends 2,743m, capable of accommodating jumbo jets.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
Official statistics show over eight thousand positions in ground handling, retail, and aviation management.
