Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a regional facility into a key international access point handling more than 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Initial Growth
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its site – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – offered optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, halting initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides internal and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– International Terminal: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) measures 2.7 kilometers, able to managing wide-body aircraft.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show over eight thousand positions across airport operations, shopping, and aviation management.
