Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a regional facility into a strategic international gateway handling more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
## Historical Evolution and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s first commercial aviation facility. Its position – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – offered strategic accessibility.
### Crisis Management and Post-Pandemic Revival
The global health emergency temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system efficiently segregates domestic and international traffic:
– T1: Contains 18 check-in counters
– T2: Offers 6 check-in counters
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (RWY 14) measures 2,743m, able to accommodating jumbo jets.
Financial Influence and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.
### Work Opportunities
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs across airport operations, shopping, and air traffic control.