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

BPD Airport (Bhubaneswar Airport), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a vital transportation cornerstone for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the previous Chief Minister along with freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has developed from a regional facility into a key international access point managing more than 4.6 million passengers per annum.

## Historical Evolution and Key Significance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Establishment and Early Development

Opened on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its location – 3000 meters from the capital’s downtown area – offered optimal connectivity.

### Crisis Management and Post-COVID Recovery

The coronavirus crisis briefly suspended BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending initial routes to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. However, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with India’s largest carrier commencing flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

Facilities and Operational Capabilities

### Passenger Buildings

BBI’s two-terminal setup efficiently segregates national and global traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Contains 18 check-in counters

– Terminal 2: Offers six registration desks

### Landing Strip and Flight Control

The main landing strip (Runway 14-32) extends 2,743m, capable of handling jumbo jets.

## Economic Impact and Public Value

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s tourist arrivals surged to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Employment Generation

Official statistics show over eight thousand positions throughout ground handling, retail, and air traffic control.