Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a provincial terminal into a strategic international portal handling above 4.6 million passengers each year.
## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its site – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – offered optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-Pandemic Revival
The coronavirus crisis briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, pausing commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with IndiGo launching flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates domestic and global traffic:
– T1: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints
– Terminal 2: Includes six registration desks
### Airstrip and Flight Control
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) measures 9,000 feet, equipped for managing large planes.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs throughout airport operations, retail, and aviation management.