# Biju Patnaik International Airport: An In-Depth Examination of Odisha’s Air Transport Nexus

BPD Airport (BPIA), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical infrastructure pillar for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a regional facility into a key international gateway managing over 4.6 million passengers annually.

Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Founding and Early Development

Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its position – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided optimal connectivity.

### Crisis Management and Post-Pandemic Revival

The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with IndiGo initiating flights to UAE, Singapore, along with Bangkok.

Developments and Technical Abilities

### Passenger Buildings

BBI’s dual-terminal system effectively separates national and international traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Features eighteen registration desks

– International Terminal: Offers 6 check-in counters

### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management

The main landing strip (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, equipped for managing wide-body aircraft.

## Economic Impact and Community Advantages

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s visitor numbers increased twofold to 32 million in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Job Creation

AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout ground handling, shopping, and aviation management.