# Biju Patnaik Air Hub: A Detailed Assessment of Odisha’s Flight Network Core

Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI), situated in Bhubaneswar, serves as a crucial transportation cornerstone for East India’s flight system. Named after the former Chief Minister as well as freedom fighter Biju Patnaik, this airport has transitioned from a regional facility into a key international portal managing more than 4.6 million passengers each year.

## Historical Evolution and Crucial Relevance https://airport-bbi.com/

### Establishment and Formative Years

Opened on 17 April 1962, the airport was designated Odisha’s primary public flight infrastructure. Its site – 3 km from the urban core of Bhubaneswar – offered convenient access.

### Pandemic Resilience and Post-COVID Recovery

The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted BBI’s international ambitions, suspending inaugural flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Nevertheless, May 2023 witnessed a strong recovery with 6E airline initiating flights to DXB, Singapore, plus Bangkok.

Developments and Operational Capabilities

### Passenger Buildings

BBI’s dual-terminal system strategically divides internal and global traffic:

– Domestic Terminal: Features eighteen registration desks

– T2: Provides six registration desks

### Landing Strip and Aviation Navigation

The main landing strip (14/32) extends 9,000 feet, capable of accommodating jumbo jets.

Financial Influence and Public Value

### Tourism Growth

Odisha’s visitor numbers doubled to 3.2 crore in 2024, attributed to BBI’s improved network.

### Work Opportunities

AAI reports over eight thousand positions in airport operations, retail, and aviation management.