BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a local airstrip into an essential international gateway handling above 4.6 million passengers annually.
## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its location – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – ensured convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, pausing inaugural flights to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with 6E airline initiating flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates internal and global traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Offers six registration desks
### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management
The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) spans 2,743m, capable of accommodating large planes.
Commercial Effects and Public Value
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s tourist arrivals increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities in airport operations, retail, and aviation management.
