BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), positioned in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Named after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a provincial terminal into an essential international gateway managing more than 4.6 million passengers each year.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its site – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – offered optimal connectivity.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery
The coronavirus crisis briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with 6E airline commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Technical Abilities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides national and overseas traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Includes eighteen registration desks
– Terminal 2: Provides 6 passenger checkpoints
### Runway and Air Traffic Management
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) measures 9,000 feet, able to accommodating wide-body aircraft.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 lakh in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, commerce, and aviation management.