# Biju Patnaik Air Hub: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Aviation Hub

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, functions as a critical infrastructure pillar for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the previous Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has developed from a local airstrip into an essential international gateway processing over 4.6 million passengers each year.

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

### Inception and Early Development

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome was designated Odisha’s inaugural civil air transport center. Its site – 3 km from Bhubaneswar’s city center – provided optimal connectivity.

### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival

The coronavirus crisis temporarily halted BBI’s international ambitions, halting commencing connections to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a strong recovery with 6E airline commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

Facilities and Technical Abilities

### Terminal Infrastructure

BBI’s two-terminal setup strategically divides domestic and international traffic:

– T1: Features 18 passenger checkpoints

– T2: Includes 6 check-in counters

### Runway and Aviation Navigation

The main landing strip (14/32) measures 9,000 feet, equipped for accommodating jumbo jets.

## Economic Impact and Public Value

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 million in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.

### Job Creation

AAI reports over eight thousand positions across airport operations, retail, and air traffic control.