## Biju Patnaik Aviation Center: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Air Transport Nexus

BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), positioned in Bhubaneswar, serves as a vital infrastructure pillar for Eastern India’s aviation network. Rechristened after the ex- Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a local airstrip into an essential international access point processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.

## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Establishment and Early Development

Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport became Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its location – 3000 meters from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – provided convenient access.

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

The coronavirus crisis interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, pausing inaugural flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, and Bangkok.

## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Facilities

BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides internal and global traffic:

– Terminal 1: Features 18 check-in counters

– Terminal 2: Offers 6 passenger checkpoints

### Airstrip and Aviation Navigation

The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) measures 9,000 feet, capable of handling large planes.

## Economic Impact and Social Benefits

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 32 million in 2024, linked to BBI’s expanded route map.

### Employment Generation

Airport Authority data indicates 8.4K employment opportunities throughout ground handling, commerce, and flight navigation.