# Biju Patnaik Air Hub: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Air Transport Nexus

Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a provincial terminal into an essential international access point handling above 4.6 million passengers each year.

## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Inception and Early Development

Opened on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its location – 3000 meters from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered optimal connectivity.

### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Facilities and Technical Abilities

### Terminal Infrastructure

BBI’s dual-terminal system efficiently segregates domestic and international traffic:

– Terminal 1: Contains 18 passenger checkpoints

– T2: Provides 6 check-in counters

### Airstrip and Flight Control

The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) extends 2.7 kilometers, equipped for accommodating wide-body aircraft.

## Economic Impact and Social Benefits

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.

### Job Creation

Official statistics show over eight thousand positions in ground handling, retail, and flight navigation.