BPD Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, acts as a vital infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Named after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has evolved from a local airstrip into a strategic international gateway managing more than 4.6 million passengers each year.
## 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 primary commercial aviation facility. Its position – 3 km from the capital’s downtown area – offered optimal connectivity.
### Crisis Management and Epidemic Recovery
The global health emergency interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending commencing connections to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.
Developments and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Facilities
BBI’s dual-terminal system effectively separates domestic and overseas traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features eighteen registration desks
– T2: Includes six registration desks
### Runway and Aviation Navigation
The main landing strip (14/32) extends 2.7 kilometers, capable of handling large planes.
Commercial Effects and Community Advantages
### Travel Industry Expansion
Odisha’s traveler influx increased twofold to 32 lakh in 2024, linked to BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
Official statistics show 8.4K employment opportunities in airport operations, retail, and air traffic control.