BPD Airport (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a provincial terminal into an essential international gateway handling above 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Early Development
Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome became Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its location – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided convenient access.
### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, suspending commencing connections to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier launching flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Facilities and Technical Abilities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates internal and overseas traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Offers six registration desks
### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation
The airport’s primary runway (14/32) measures 9,000 feet, able to managing wide-body aircraft.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show 8.4K employment opportunities across airport operations, shopping, and aviation management.