BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), positioned in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a regional facility into an essential international gateway managing more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.
## Historical Evolution and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/
### Establishment and Formative Years
Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its position – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – offered convenient access.
### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery
The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, suspending commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. However, May 2023 saw a strong recovery with 6E airline initiating flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.
## Infrastructure and Operational Capabilities
### Terminal Infrastructure
BBI’s two-terminal setup effectively separates domestic and international traffic:
– Domestic Terminal: Contains eighteen registration desks
– International Terminal: Provides 6 check-in counters
### Landing Strip and Flight Control
The main landing strip (RWY 14) extends 2.7 kilometers, capable of accommodating jumbo jets.
Financial Influence and Community Advantages
### Visitor Sector Development
Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s expanded route map.
### Work Opportunities
Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities across terminal services, shopping, and flight navigation.
