BPD Airport (BBI), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the former Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a provincial terminal into an essential international gateway processing over 4.6 million passengers each year.
Chronological Growth and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Initial Growth
Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s first commercial aviation facility. Its location – 1.8 miles from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s dual-terminal system effectively separates national and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features 18 check-in counters
– Terminal 2: Provides 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) measures 9,000 feet, equipped for accommodating jumbo jets.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports over eight thousand positions throughout terminal services, commerce, and flight navigation.
