Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a critical transportation cornerstone for the region’s air connectivity. Named after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a provincial terminal into a strategic international access point processing over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Inception and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its location – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – ensured convenient access.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival
The coronavirus crisis temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending inaugural flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities
### Passenger Buildings
BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and global traffic:
– Terminal 1: Features 18 check-in counters
– International Terminal: Offers 6 check-in counters
### Runway and Flight Control
The main landing strip (14/32) spans 2,743m, capable of accommodating large planes.
Financial Influence and Community Advantages
### Tourism Growth
Odisha’s tourist arrivals doubled to 32 million in 2024, associated with BBI’s improved network.
### Employment Generation
AAI reports 8.4K employment opportunities throughout terminal services, retail, and flight navigation.