Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a provincial terminal into a key international gateway processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.

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

### Inception and Initial Growth

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its position – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – offered strategic accessibility.

### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-Pandemic Revival

The COVID-19 pandemic briefly suspended BBI’s international ambitions, pausing initial routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with 6E airline commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Facilities and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Facilities

BBI’s dual-terminal system effectively separates national and international traffic:

– Terminal 1: Contains 18 check-in counters

– International Terminal: Includes 6 check-in counters

### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management

The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) spans 2.7 kilometers, equipped for handling wide-body aircraft.

Financial Influence and Social Benefits

### Visitor Sector Development

Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Job Creation

Airport Authority data indicates over eight thousand positions across airport operations, shopping, and aviation management.