Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has developed from a regional facility into a strategic international access point managing more than 4.6 million passengers annually.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s primary civil air transport center. Its position – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – ensured convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, halting initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.
Developments and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides national and overseas traffic:
– T1: Includes 18 check-in counters
– T2: Offers 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (14/32) extends 2.7 kilometers, equipped for handling wide-body aircraft.
Financial Influence and Social Benefits
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Job Creation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout airport operations, shopping, and aviation management.
