## Biju Patnaik Air Hub: An In-Depth Examination of Odisha’s Flight Network Core

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), located in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial aviation foundation for East India’s flight system. Renamed after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a regional facility into an essential international gateway handling more than 4.6 million passengers annually.

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

### Founding and Formative Years

Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s inaugural commercial aviation facility. Its position – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured strategic accessibility.

### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily halted BBI’s global aspirations, halting commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a significant rebound with India’s largest carrier launching flights to UAE, Singapore, along with Bangkok.

## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Infrastructure

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

– T1: Features 18 passenger checkpoints

– T2: Offers six registration desks

### Runway and Air Traffic Management

The principal airstrip (Runway 14-32) spans 9,000 feet, equipped for managing large planes.

Financial Influence and Social Benefits

### Travel Industry Expansion

Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Job Creation

AAI reports over eight thousand positions in ground handling, retail, and aviation management.