## Biju Patnaik Aviation Center: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Flight Network Core

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a local airstrip into a strategic international gateway processing above 4.6 million passengers annually.

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

### Founding and Initial Growth

Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its position – 3000 meters from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided convenient access.

### Pandemic Resilience and Epidemic Recovery

The coronavirus crisis briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with IndiGo initiating flights to UAE, Singapore, along with Bangkok.

## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities

### Passenger Buildings

BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides national and overseas traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 passenger checkpoints

– T2: Includes six registration desks

### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management

The airport’s primary runway (14/32) spans 9,000 feet, able to managing wide-body aircraft.

Commercial Effects and Social Benefits

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.

### Job Creation

Airport Authority data indicates over eight thousand positions in ground handling, retail, and flight navigation.