## Biju Patnaik Aviation Center: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Flight Network Core

Biju Patnaik Air Terminal (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a critical aviation foundation for Eastern India’s aviation network. Named after the ex- Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this aerodrome has transitioned from a local airstrip into an essential international gateway processing over 4.6 million passengers per annum.

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

### Founding and Early Development

Inaugurated on 17 April 1962, the air terminal emerged as Odisha’s first civil air transport center. Its location – 1.8 miles from the capital’s downtown area – offered convenient access.

### COVID-19 Adaptation and Epidemic Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s overseas expansion plans, suspending initial routes to KL and Bangkok. Nonetheless, May 2023 experienced a robust resurgence with 6E airline launching flights to Dubai, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

Developments and Functional Capacities

### Passenger Buildings

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

– Terminal 1: Includes eighteen registration desks

– International Terminal: Offers six registration desks

### Runway and Air Traffic Management

The airport’s primary runway (RWY 14) extends 9,000 feet, able to handling wide-body aircraft.

Commercial Effects and Social Benefits

### Visitor Sector Development

Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 32 lakh in 2024, attributed to BBI’s enhanced connectivity.

### Job Creation

AAI reports over eight thousand positions in terminal services, shopping, and air traffic control.