BPD Airport (BPIA), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a crucial transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a local airstrip into an essential international portal handling over 4.6 million passengers per annum.
Historical Development and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome was designated Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its location – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – ensured strategic accessibility.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The coronavirus crisis temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing inaugural flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 saw a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier launching flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features eighteen registration desks
– T2: Provides six registration desks
### Runway and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) measures 2.7 kilometers, able to accommodating large planes.
## Economic Impact and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Work Opportunities
Airport Authority data indicates 8,400 direct jobs throughout airport operations, retail, and flight navigation.
