BPD Airport (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a regional facility into a strategic international gateway managing over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its location – 3000 meters from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-Pandemic Revival
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending inaugural flights to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with 6E airline commencing flights to UAE, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Technical Abilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Provides six registration desks
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, capable of managing jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers increased twofold to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities across terminal services, retail, and flight navigation.