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

BPD Airport (BPIA), located in Bhubaneswar, functions as a vital aviation foundation for the region’s air connectivity. Renamed after the former Chief Minister and freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this air hub has evolved from a provincial terminal into a key international portal managing over 4.6 million passengers each year.

Chronological Growth and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Founding and Initial Growth

Commissioned on 17 April 1962, the aerodrome emerged as Odisha’s inaugural public flight infrastructure. Its location – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – provided convenient access.

### Pandemic Resilience and Post-Pandemic Revival

The global health emergency briefly suspended BBI’s global aspirations, suspending commencing connections to Malaysia’s capital and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 saw a robust resurgence with 6E airline commencing flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

## Infrastructure and Functional Capacities

### Terminal Infrastructure

BBI’s paired terminal arrangement effectively separates internal and global traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Includes 18 check-in counters

– Terminal 2: Includes 6 passenger checkpoints

### Runway and Air Traffic Management

The airport’s primary runway (RWY 14) extends 2,743m, equipped for handling large planes.

Commercial Effects and Community Advantages

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s traveler influx doubled to 32 million in 2024, associated with BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Work Opportunities

Airport Authority data indicates over eight thousand positions in ground handling, shopping, and air traffic control.