Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, acts as a crucial aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Renamed after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has transitioned from a provincial terminal into a key international portal processing over 4.6 million passengers annually.

Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Establishment and Early Development

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its location – 1.8 miles from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided optimal connectivity.

### COVID-19 Adaptation and Post-COVID Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, pausing commencing connections to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a significant rebound with 6E airline launching flights to UAE, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

Facilities and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Facilities

BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates domestic and international traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Features 18 check-in counters

– T2: Offers six registration desks

### Landing Strip and Air Traffic Management

The airport’s primary runway (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, able to managing jumbo jets.

## Economic Impact and Community Advantages

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s traveler influx surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Work Opportunities

AAI reports 8,400 direct jobs in airport operations, retail, and flight navigation.