BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a regional facility into a strategic international access point handling over 4.6 million passengers annually.
Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Founding and Early Development
Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport emerged as Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its site – 3000 meters from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered convenient access.
### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery
The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with IndiGo commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, along with Bangkok.
Facilities and Functional Capacities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s paired terminal arrangement strategically divides internal and international traffic:
– Terminal 1: Contains 18 check-in counters
– T2: Includes 6 check-in counters
### Runway and Flight Control
The principal airstrip (RWY 14) measures 9,000 feet, able to accommodating large planes.
## Economic Impact and Social Benefits
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s visitor numbers increased twofold to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Work Opportunities
Official statistics show 8,400 direct jobs in ground handling, retail, and aviation management.
