# Biju Patnaik Air Hub: A Comprehensive Analysis of Odisha’s Aviation Hub

Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Rechristened after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a local airstrip into a strategic international portal managing over 4.6 million passengers annually.

## Historical Evolution and Strategic Importance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Founding and Initial Growth

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal became Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its position – 3000 meters from Bhubaneswar’s city center – ensured convenient access.

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

The global health emergency temporarily halted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, pausing initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with IndiGo initiating flights to Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok.

Developments and Technical Abilities

### Terminal Facilities

BBI’s paired terminal arrangement efficiently segregates internal and international traffic:

– Terminal 1: Contains eighteen registration desks

– International Terminal: Offers 6 passenger checkpoints

### Airstrip and Air Traffic Management

The airport’s primary runway (14/32) extends 2,743m, equipped for managing jumbo jets.

## Economic Impact and Community Advantages

### Visitor Sector Development

Odisha’s visitor numbers surged to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s expanded route map.

### Job Creation

Official statistics show over eight thousand positions across ground handling, shopping, and air traffic control.