m Removed empty portal template using script |
added info |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{short description|Airport in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India}} | |||
{{Redirect|BBI Airport|the German airport formerly abbreviated/titled as BBI (Berlin Brandenburg International)|Berlin Brandenburg Airport}} | {{Redirect|BBI Airport|the German airport formerly abbreviated/titled as BBI (Berlin Brandenburg International)|Berlin Brandenburg Airport}} | ||
{{Use Indian English|date=December 2025}} | |||
{{Use Indian English|date= | {{Use dmy dates|date=December 2025}} | ||
{{Use dmy dates|date= | |||
{{Infobox airport | {{Infobox airport | ||
| name = | | name = Biju Patnaik Airport | ||
| image = File: | | image = BBI-T1 (2).jpg | ||
| image | | image2 = File:2025-01-21-00 00 2025-01-21-23 59 Sentinel-2 L2A True color.jpg | ||
| IATA = BBI | | caption2 = Satellite image of the airport | ||
| ICAO = VEBS | | IATA = BBI | ||
| type = Public | | ICAO = VEBS | ||
| owner = | | type = Public | ||
| operator = | | owner = | ||
| owner-oper = [[Airports Authority of India]] | | operator = | ||
| city-served = [[Bhubaneswar]] | | owner-oper = [[Airports Authority of India]] | ||
| location = [[Bhubaneswar]], [[Odisha]], India | | city-served = [[Bhubaneswar]] | ||
| opened = 17 | | location = [[Bhubaneswar]], [[Odisha]], [[India]] | ||
| | | opened = {{start date and age|1962|04|17|df=y|p=n|br=n}} | ||
| hub = [[IndiaOne Air]], [[IndiGo]] | |||
| metric-elev = yes | | focus_city = | ||
| elevation-m = 42 | | metric-elev = yes | ||
| elevation-f = 138 | | elevation-m = 42 | ||
| coordinates = {{coord|20|14|40|N|085|49|04|E|display=inline,title}} | | elevation-f = 138 | ||
| pushpin_map = India Odisha#India | | coordinates = {{coord|20|14|40|N|085|49|04|E|display=inline,title}} | ||
| pushpin_label = '''BBI''' | | pushpin_map = India Odisha#India | ||
| website = [https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/bhubaneswar | | pushpin_label = '''BBI''' | ||
| metric-rwy = Y | | website = [https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/bhubaneswar Bhubaneswar Airport] | ||
| r1-number = | | metric-rwy = Y | ||
| r1-length-m = | | r1-number = 14/32 | ||
| r1-length-f = | | r1-length-m = 2743 | ||
| r1-surface = | | r1-length-f = 9000 | ||
| r1-surface = Asphalt | |||
| stat-year = April 2024 – March 2025 | |||
| stat1-header = Passengers | |||
| stat1-data = 4,838,751 ({{increase}} 5.2%) | |||
| stat-year = April | | stat3-header = Aircraft movements | ||
| stat1-header = Passengers | | stat3-data = 37,205 ({{increase}} 5.2%) | ||
| stat1-data = | | stat4-header = Cargo tonnage | ||
| stat3-header = Aircraft movements | | stat4-data = 9,086 ({{decrease}} 7.9%) | ||
| stat3-data = | | footnotes = Source: [[Airports Authority of India|AAI]]<ref name="AAI3">{{cite web|title=Annexure III – Passenger Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex3.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}</ref><ref name="AAI2">{{cite web|title=Annexure II – Aircraft Movement Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex2.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}</ref><ref name="AAI4">{{cite web|title=Annexure IV – Freight Movement Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex4.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}</ref> | ||
| stat4-header = Cargo | | nativename = <!-- No native name as per [[WP:NOINDICSCRIPTS]] --> | ||
| stat4-data = | | mapframe = Yes | ||
| footnotes = Source: [[ | | mapframe-zoom = 10 | ||
| nativename = <!-- No native name as per [[WP:NOINDICSCRIPTS]] --> | | pushpin_map_caption = Location of airport in Odisha | ||
}} | }} | ||
'''Biju Patnaik Airport''' {{Airport codes|BBI|VEBS}} is an [[international airport]] serving [[Bhubaneswar]], the capital city of [[Odisha]], [[India]]. It is situated around {{convert|4|km}} south-west of [[Bhubaneswar Railway Station]] and {{convert|6|km}} from the city center.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aera.gov.in/content/airports/bhubaneswar-airport.php |title=Bhubaneswar Airport |work=[[Ministry of Civil Aviation (India)|Airport Economic Regulatory Authority]] |access-date=3 January 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190129010802/http://aera.gov.in/content/airports/bhubaneswar-airport.php |archive-date=29 January 2019|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Named after [[Biju Patnaik]], the former [[Chief Minister of Odisha]], famed aviator and freedom fighter, it is the [[List of busiest airports in India by passenger traffic|15th busiest airport in India]] and the 11th busiest among the airports maintained by the [[Airports Authority of India]]. It is the 19th busiest airport in India in terms of cargo traffic. In the fiscal year 2024–25, it handled over 4.8 million passengers and around 9.1 thousand metric [[tonnes]] of cargo.<ref name="AAI3"/><ref name="AAI4"/> | |||
==History== | ==History== | ||
The airport was dedicated to the people of [[Odisha]] on 17 April 1962, becoming the first ever commercial airport in the state. The airport boasts two active scheduled passenger terminals | The airport was dedicated to the people of [[Odisha]] on 17 April 1962, becoming the first ever commercial airport in the state. The airport boasts two active scheduled passenger terminals, Terminals 1 and 2, for domestic and international passengers respectively. | ||
In March 2013, the former [[Ministry of Civil Aviation (India)|Minister of Civil Aviation]], [[Ajit Singh (politician, born 1939)|Ajit Singh]], inaugurated Terminal 1, which caters to domestic passengers, whereas Terminal 2 was then refurbished to handle international operations.<ref name="newterminalbs">{{cite news|title=New terminal at Bhubaneswar airport starts operations|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/new-terminal-at-bhubaneswar-airport-starts-operations-113031400359_1.html|access-date=17 March 2013|newspaper=Business Standard|date=14 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230231810/http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/new-terminal-at-bhubaneswar-airport-starts-operations-113031400359_1.html|archive-date=30 December 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> On 30 October 2013, the [[Government of India]] accorded international status to the airport after [[Air India]] started flights to [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Bangkok]] and [[AirAsia]] started flights to Kuala Lumpur.<ref>{{cite news|title=Centre accords international tag to Bhubaneswar airport|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/Centre-accords-international-tag-to-Bhubaneswar-airport/articleshow/24959224.cms|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=31 October 2013|access-date=30 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131231000543/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-10-31/bhubaneswar/43558773_1_new-domestic-terminal-bhubaneswar-airport-international-terminal|archive-date=31 December 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/bhubaneswar-bangkok-direct-flight-from-december-10-4968974/|title=Air India to commence Bhubaneswar to Bangkok direct flights from December 10|work=Indian Express|access-date=5 December 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.ndtvprofit.com/business/airasia-starts-operations-on-kuala-lumpur-bhubaneswar-route-1686576|title=AirAsia starts Operations on Kuala Lumpur-Bhubaneswar Route|website=www.ntvprofit.com|date=27 April 2017 |access-date=27 April 2017}}</ref> However, these routes were terminated later due to COVID-19.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://odishatv.in/odisha/air-india-suspends-bhubaneswar-bangkok-flight-service-308914|title=Air India Suspends Bhubaneswar to Bangkok Flight Service|website=[[Odisha TV]]|access-date=17 July 2018|archive-date=22 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180722200257/http://odishatv.in/odisha/air-india-suspends-bhubaneswar-bangkok-flight-service-308914|url-status=dead}}</ref> In September 2013, the airport management took a significant step towards sustainability by launching a green energy initiative with the installation of a 100KW rooftop solar power plant.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/biju-patnaik-airport-turns-to-solar-power-for-energy-needs/articleshow/22244605.cms|title=Biju Patnaik airport turns to solar power for energy needs|work=[[The Times of India]]|date=3 September 2023|accessdate=3 September 2023}}</ref> | |||
In June 2022, the addition of eight new apron bays increased the total number of bays to 24, making it the largest apron facility in Eastern India. This upgrade supports remote parking and night operations, and paved the way for Terminal 3 development.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/work-on-8-more-apron-bays-at-city-airport-ends/articleshow/92068962.cms|title=Work on 8 more apron bays at the city airport ends|work=[[The Times of India]]|date=8 June 2022 |accessdate=8 June 2022}}</ref> | |||
In May 2023, the airport opened a 4MW ground‑mounted solar power plant, making Biju Patnaik International Airport the first fully solar-powered airport in India, operating entirely on renewable energy.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Raj, Amulya|title=Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport Becomes Self-Sustainable, Installs 4 MP Solar Power Plant|url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/world/bhubaneswars-biju-patnaik-international-airport-becomes-self-sustainable-installs-4-mp-solar-power-plant/ar-AA1aQBrr|work=[[Zee News]]|date=7 May 2023|access-date=9 May 2023}}</ref> International operations resumed from Bhubaneswar in May 2023 after [[IndiGo]] started direct flights to [[Bangkok]], [[Dubai]] and [[Singapore]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230403-6ebbi|title=Indigo Adds Bhubaneswar – Dubai From May 2023 |work=Aeroroutes|accessdate=3 April 2023}}</ref><ref name="exp">{{cite web|url=https://www.zeebiz.com/economy-infra/aviation/news-indigo-adds-flights-to-singapore-bangkok-after-go-first-cancels-flights-interglobe-aviation-share-price-on-bse-nse-233237|title=IndiGo strengthens connectivity to Southeast Asia, adds flights connecting Singapore, Bangkok|work=Zee Business|date=3 May 2023 |accessdate=3 May 2023}}</ref> | |||
In February 2024, a new link building was inaugurated to connect Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, allowing international passengers seamless access to passenger boarding bridges in the Terminal 1.<ref name="link">{{cite web|title=Bhubaneswar Airport Update: Odisha's Biju Patnaik International Airport unveils new terminal link building to enhance passenger connectivity |url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-bhubaneswar-airport-update-odishas-biju-patnaik-international-airport-unveils-new-terminal-link-buildingnbspto-enhance-passenger-connectivity-3387699/|work=[[The Financial Express (India)]]|date=8 February 2024|access-date=8 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
==Terminals== | ==Terminals== | ||
Biju Patnaik Airport | Biju Patnaik International Airport is a key civil aviation hub in Eastern India. It houses two active passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, along with a dedicated International Cargo Terminal to support freight operations. | ||
===Terminal 1=== | ===Terminal 1=== | ||
[[File: | [[File:Biju Patnaik International Airport.jpg|thumb|Terminal 1 building as seen from the airside]] | ||
{{multiple image | |||
| align = right | |||
| total_width = 250 | |||
| perrow = 1 | |||
| image1 = Sand Art of Lord Jagannath at the Bhubaneswar Airport, Odisha.jpg | |||
| alt1 = Sand Art of Lord Jagannath | |||
| image2 = Masks at BBI Airport.png | |||
| alt2 = Raghurajpur Masks | |||
| image3 = Bhubaneswar Airport Painting 2.jpg | |||
| alt3 = Nataraja Mural | |||
| footer = [[Arts of Odisha]] in Terminal 1:<br />[[Sand art and play|Sand Art]] of [[Jagannath|Lord Jagannath]] by [[Sudarsan Pattnaik]] (top), Masks of [[Raghurajpur]] (middle), and Mural of [[Nataraja]] (bottom) | |||
}} | |||
Terminal 1, inaugurated in March 2013, is a modern and efficient domestic gateway, originally built in 2013 with capacity for ~4 million annual passengers to cater the full spectrum of domestic passenger traffic for the state.<ref>{{cite news|title=Lanco Infratech bags Rs 92 cr order from AAI|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/lanco-infratech-bags-rs-92-cr-order-from-aai-110060400202_1.html|access-date=30 December 2013|newspaper=[[Business Standard]]|date=4 June 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235519/http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/lanco-infratech-bags-rs-92-cr-order-from-aai-110060400202_1.html|archive-date=30 December 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="newterminalbs"/><ref>{{cite news|last=Singha|first=Minati|title=International airport to take off by June|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/International-airport-to-take-off-by-June/articleshow/18804322.cms|access-date=5 March 2013|newspaper=Times of India|date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160924202711/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/International-airport-to-take-off-by-June/articleshow/18804322.cms|archive-date=24 September 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
Terminal 1, a two-storied building with a total area of {{convert|18240|sqm|sqft}} constructed at an estimated cost of {{INR}} 1.45 billion by [[Lanco Infratech]], consists of four [[Jet bridge|aerobridges]], four elevators, several escalators, 18 check-in counters, three arrival luggage conveyors, a spa, and multiple lounges.<ref name="newterminalbs" /><ref>{{cite news|last=Barik|first=Bibhuti|title=Airport work speeds up – Capital set for take-off in style|url=http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110624/jsp/orissa/story_14152627.jsp|access-date=17 March 2013|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=24 June 2011|location=Calcutta, India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801070511/http://www.telegraphindia.com/1110624/jsp/orissa/story_14152627.jsp|archive-date=1 August 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
The terminal building is designed with green building standards, featuring rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment, and Odisha-inspired artwork and décor along internal walls, giving travellers cultural insight into the region.<ref>{{cite news|title=New terminal at Bhubaneswar airport thrown open|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/New-terminal-at-Bhubaneswar-airport-thrown-open/articleshow/18824943.cms|access-date=17 March 2013|date=6 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130308010939/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-03-06/bhubaneswar/37499050_1_bhubaneswar-airport-biju-patnaik-airport-wall-facade|archive-date=8 March 2013|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|url-status=live}}</ref> The new terminal also has food kiosks, gift shops, bookstores, art galleries and handloom/handicraft kiosks.<ref>{{cite news|last=Ramanath V|first=Riyan|title=Plans to provide spa facilities at airport|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/Plans-to-provide-spa-facilities-at-airport/articleshow/18343521.cms|access-date=18 March 2013|date=5 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235141/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-02-05/bhubaneswar/36763902_1_duty-free-shops-jewellery-shop-spa|archive-date=30 December 2013|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
===Terminal 2=== | ===Terminal 2=== | ||
Terminal 2 serves as the dedicated international terminal, playing a key role in the airport's growing international connectivity and passenger capacity. Originally constructed in the mid-1960s to cater to domestic operations, Terminal 2 was refurbished and repurposed after Bhubaneswar was granted international status in October 2013. Since then, it has handled international passenger traffic and become a crucial link between Odisha and major global destinations. | |||
The terminal being built over an area of {{convert|6264|sqm|sqft}}, consists of 6 check-in counters, 10 immigration counters, four customs counters, numerous amenities and multiple seating areas.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bhubaneswar - Technical Information|url=http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/bhubaneshwar_technicalinfo.jsp|access-date=25 May 2017|newspaper=[[Airports Authority of India]]|date=22 August 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170607162700/http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/bhubaneshwar_technicalinfo.jsp|archive-date=7 June 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> | |||
A link building measuring {{convert|3360|sqm|sqft}} link building connects Terminal 1 (domestic) with Terminal 2 (international). This skybridge was inaugurated in February 2024, significantly improving the movement of passengers and offering a seamless transfer experience between domestic and international flights. Constructed at an approximate cost of 872 million, the terminal also reflects Odisha's architectural identity with subtle design cues and improved passenger handling mechanisms.<ref name="link"/> | |||
===Terminal 3=== | ===Terminal 3=== | ||
Terminal 3 | Terminal 3 is a planned expansion to accommodate the rapid growth in passenger traffic and improve the airport's operational capacity. As of 2025, the Government of India has approved the development of the third terminal, which is intended to address congestion at the existing facilities and prepare the airport for future demand. The proposal comes amid rising passenger numbers at the airport, with authorities recognising the need for expanded infrastructure.<ref>{{cite news|last=Karim|first=Mohammed Imteshal|title=Bhubaneswar Airport's third terminal approved, design to highlight Odisha's heritage: Union Civil Aviation Minister|url=https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/bhubaneswar-airport-s-third-terminal-approved-design-to-highlight-odisha-s-heritage-union-civil-aviation-minister-270655|access-date=25 August 2025|date=25 August 2025|website=[[Odisha TV]]}}</ref> | ||
Terminal 3 will house both arrivals and departures within the same building, improving passenger convenience and operational logistics. The footprint of T3 is designed to be approximately {{convert|65000|sqm|sqft}}, making it a substantial addition to the airport's built environment. With this scale, the new terminal is projected to handle around 8.6 million passengers per year. The development is also planned to include about six additional aerobridges to support aircraft operations and improve boarding efficiency.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bhubaneswar Airport set for major expansion|url=https://www.dinalipi.com/bhubaneswar-airport-set-for-major-expansion/|access-date=8 July 2025|date=8 July 2025|website=Dinalipi}}</ref> | |||
In addition to the functional aspects, planners intend for Terminal 3 to reflect Odisha's cultural identity in its architectural and interior design. Officials, including the Union Civil Aviation Minister, have noted that the terminal will highlight the state's heritage, art, history, and legacy, so that visitors arriving in Bhubaneswar can immediately experience a sense of local identity through the terminal's aesthetics and ambience. The estimated cost for constructing the new terminal is around {{INR}}10 billion, and while design approvals and planning are underway, final execution is subject to formal sanctioning The project has been discussed in multiple stakeholder meetings, and land for the terminal has been identified adjacent to the existing Terminal 1.<ref>{{cite news|last=Ramanath V|first=Riyan|title=Proposed T3 terminal at city airport to have arrival departure facilities|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/bhubaneswar/proposed-t3-terminal-at-city-airport-to-have-arrival-departure-facilities/articleshow/122283103.cms|access-date=7 July 2025|date=7 July 2025|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> | |||
===International Cargo Terminal=== | |||
Integrated Cargo Terminal at the Biju Patnaik International Airport serves as a key facility for managing both domestic and international freight movement in Odisha. Managed by AAICLAS (AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Ltd), the terminal has a handling capacity of 26,490 metric [[tonnes]], strengthening Bhubaneswar's position as an emerging air logistics center in [[Eastern India]].<ref>{{cite web|date=19 December 2012|title=Improvement in Air Cargo Capacity|website= [[Parliament of India]]|url=https://sansad.in/getFile/annex/258/AU1299.pdf?source=pqars|access-date=19 December 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=AAICLAS: Facilities|website=aaiclas.aero|url=https://www.aaiclas.aero/ground_handling_capabilities|access-date=26 June 2024}}</ref> | |||
International cargo operations at Biju Patnaik International Airport originally began in 2017 but were discontinued following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The suspension of direct flights between Bhubaneswar and key international destinations like [[Kuala Lumpur]] and [[Bangkok]] in 2019 further impacted these services.<ref>{{cite web|title=BPIA, Bhubaneswar set to relaunch international cargo operations in September|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/bhubaneswar/2023/Jul/08/bpiabhubaneswar-set-to-relaunch-international-cargo-operations-in-september-2592665.html|date=8 July 2023|access-date=8 July 2023}}</ref> | |||
Since the relaunch of direct international cargo operations in January 2024, Biju Patnaik International Airport has developed the required infrastructure and regulatory clearances to support import and export activities directly with global destinations. At present, cargo flights connect Bhubaneswar with [[Dubai]], [[Singapore]], and Bangkok, with additional routes in progress. A major milestone was achieved on 15 May 2024, when the airport handled its first international shipment of perishable goods from Bhubaneswar to Dubai.<ref>{{cite web|title=Odisha: International air cargo service resumes at BPIA|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2024/Feb/01/odisha-international-air-cargo-service-resumes-at-bpia|date=1 February 2024|access-date=1 February 2024}}</ref> | |||
==Runways== | |||
The airport features a single primary runway, 14/32, used for all major flight operations. It is supported by two taxiways, one intersecting and one parallel. The intersecting taxiway primarily handles light aircraft movements, while the full-length parallel taxiway facilitates efficient operations for narrow-body aircraft.<ref>{{cite web|title=VEBS - BIJU PATNAIK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, BHUBANESWAR|url=https://aim-india.aai.aero/eaip-v2-6-2023/eAIP/IN-AD%202.1VEBS-en-GB.html|website=aai.aero|access-date=22 July 2025}}</ref> | |||
{| class="wikitable sortable" | |||
!Runway | |||
!Length | |||
!Width | |||
!Approach Lights/[[Instrument landing system|ILS]] | |||
|- | |||
|14/32 | |||
|{{convert|2744|m|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
|{{convert|45|m|ft|abbr=on}} | |||
|CAT-I / CAT-II | |||
|} | |||
==Coast Guard Air Enclave== | ==Coast Guard Air Enclave== | ||
[[Indian Coast Guard]]'s Air Enclave along with its 743 Dornier Squadron was commissioned by former Vice-Admiral Anurag G Thapliyal, [[Director General of the Indian Coast Guard]] at the Biju Patnaik International Airport on 15 December 2014.<ref>{{cite news|title=Coast Guard's new air enclave inaugurated in Bhubaneswar|url=http://www.oneindia.com/india/coast-guards-new-air-enclave-inaugurated-in-bhubaneswar-1592811.html|access-date=12 October 2016|date=15 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161013074507/http://www.oneindia.com/india/coast-guards-new-air-enclave-inaugurated-in-bhubaneswar-1592811.html|archive-date=13 October 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> | |||
The units operate under the operational and administrative control of the Commander of the Coast Guard Region (North East) through the Commander, Coast Guard District No 7 (Odisha). Several strategic air operations are streamlined and synergised for the protection of the sea areas off the Coastal Odisha.<ref>{{cite news|title=Commissioning of Coast Guard Air Enclave Bhubaneswar & 743 Squadron (CG) |url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=113360|access-date=12 October 2016|date=15 December 2014}}</ref> | The units operate under the operational and administrative control of the Commander of the Coast Guard Region (North East) through the Commander, Coast Guard District No 7 (Odisha). Several strategic air operations are streamlined and synergised for the protection of the sea areas off the Coastal Odisha.<ref>{{cite news|title=Commissioning of Coast Guard Air Enclave Bhubaneswar & 743 Squadron (CG) |url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=113360|access-date=12 October 2016|date=15 December 2014}}</ref> | ||
==Airlines and destinations== | ==Airlines and destinations== | ||
{{Airport-dest-list | <!-- Please use only independent sources. The airport and airline itself are not independent sources. --> | ||
{{Airport-dest-list | |||
<!-- --> | <!-- --> | ||
|[[ | | [[Air India]] | [[Indira Gandhi International Airport|Delhi]] | ||
<!-- --> | <!-- --> | ||
|[[Air India]] |[[Kempegowda International Airport| | | {{nowrap|[[Air India Express]]}} | [[Kempegowda International Airport|Bengaluru]], [[Indira Gandhi International Airport|Delhi]], [[Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport|Mumbai]], [[Pune Airport|Pune]] | ||
<!-- --> | <!-- --> | ||
|[[ | | [[Akasa Air]] | [[Kempegowda International Airport|Bengaluru]] | ||
<!-- --> | |||
|[[IndiaOne Air]]|[[Utkela Airport|Bhawanipatna]],<ref>{{cite news|last=Cassian|first=Baliarsingh|title=Odisha's Utkela Airport welcomes first flight from Bhubaneswar; check timings, price, other details|url=https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/odisha-s-utkela-airport-welcomes-first-flight-from-bhubaneswar-check-timings-price-other-details-213694|work=[[Odisha TV]]|date=31 August 2023|access-date=31 August 2023}}</ref> [[Sonari Airport|Jamshedpur]],<ref>{{Cite web |date=31 January 2023 |title=Flight links Jamshedpur with Kolkata, Bhubaneswar |url=https://www.msn.com/en-in/news/other/flight-links-jamshedpur-with-kolkata-bhubaneswar/ar-AA16WiN1 |access-date=31 January 2023 |website=Press Trust of India}}</ref> [[Jeypore Airport|Jeypore]], [[Rourkela Airport|Rourkela]]<ref>{{Cite web |date=6 December 2025 |title=After six months halt, aircraft takes flight from Rourkela |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2025/Dec/06/after-six-months-halt-aircraft-takes-flight-from-rourkela|access-date=20 December 2025 |website=[[The New Indian Express]]}}</ref> | |||
<!-- --> | <!-- --> | ||
|[[IndiGo]] | [[Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport|Ahmedabad]], [[ | | [[IndiGo]] | [[Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport|Ahmedabad]], [[Suvarnabhumi Airport|Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi]], [[Kempegowda International Airport|Bengaluru]], [[Chennai International Airport|Chennai]], [[Dehradun Airport|Dehradun]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-indigo-expands-domestic-network-with-new-routes-connecting-bhubaneswar-dehradun-and-srinagar-check-timings-other-detailsnbsp-3704316/|title=IndiGo expands domestic network with new routes connecting Bhubaneswar, Dehradun and Srinagar – Check timings, other details |work=Financial Express|date=31 December 2024 |accessdate=31 December 2024}}</ref> [[Indira Gandhi International Airport|Delhi]], [[Dubai International Airport|Dubai–International]],<ref name="OTV">{{cite news|last=Baliarsingh|first=Cassian|title=IndiGo introduces direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Bagdogra via Durgapur|url=https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/indigo-introduces-direct-flights-from-bhubaneswar-to-bagdogra-via-durgapur-242931|work=[[Odisha TV]]|date=31 August 2024|access-date=1 September 2024}}</ref> [[Manohar International Airport|Goa–Mopa]],<ref>{{cite news|last=Ranjan|first=Rashmi|title=Bhubaneswar-Goa direct flight from April 2025|url=https://odishatv.in/news/odisha/bhubaneswar-goa-direct-flight-from-april-2025-258342/amp|work=Odisha TV|date=20 March 2025|access-date=20 March 2025}}</ref> [[Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport|Guwahati]], [[Rajiv Gandhi International Airport|Hyderabad]], [[Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Airport|Indore]], [[Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport|Kolkata]], [[Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport|Mumbai]],<ref name="IndiGo Network Expansion">{{cite web|url=https://centreforaviation.com/news/indigo-to-resume-lucknow-raipur-bhubaneswar-service-from-jun-2023-1203132|title=IndiGo to resume Lucknow-Raipur-Bhubaneswar service from Jun-2023|work=CAPA|accessdate=22 May 2023}}</ref> [[Prayagraj Airport|Prayagraj]], [[Swami Vivekananda Airport|Raipur]], [[Birsa Munda Airport|Ranchi]], [[Changi Airport|Singapore]], [[Lal Bahadur Shastri Airport|Varanasi]], [[Visakhapatnam Airport|Visakhapatnam]] | ||
<!-- --> | <!-- --> | ||
| [[ | |[[Star Air (India)|Star Air]]| [[Veer Surendra Sai Airport|Jharsuguda]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.starair.in/FaresAndRules/flightSchedule|title=Star Air - Flight Schedule|work=[[Star Air (India)|Star Air]]|accessdate=21 July 2023}}</ref> | ||
}} | }} | ||
== Connectivity == | |||
[[File:Bhubaneswar at night from sky.jpg|thumb|[[Bhubaneswar]] city from above]] | |||
The airport handles both domestic and international operations through its integrated terminal and is managed by the [[Airports Authority of India]]. Due to its central location within the city, connectivity to and from the airport is considered one of the strongest among state capitals in [[Eastern India]]. | |||
===Railways=== | |||
{{Main|Bhubaneswar Railway Station|East Coast Railway Zone}} | |||
[[File:Bbrailhq.jpg|thumb|[[East Coast Railway zone|ECoR]] headquarters at [[Chandrasekharpur]], [[Bhubaneswar]]]] | |||
Rail connectivity to BBI is primarily supported by [[Bhubaneswar railway station|Bhubaneswar Railway Station]], which lies about 3–5 km away and can be reached within 10–15 minutes by road under normal traffic conditions. Bhubaneswar serves as the headquarters of the [[East Coast Railway zone|East Coast Railway]] zone of the [[Indian Railways]] and provides frequent express, superfast, and premium train services connecting the city with majority of the Indian cities.<ref name="zones_and_divisions">{{cite web |title=Railway Zones and Divisions in The Country |url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=168812. |website=Press Information Bureau |publisher=Ministry of Railways (Government of India) |access-date=1 January 2025 |date=21 July 2017}}</ref> Passengers arriving by train typically use taxis, app-based cabs, [[Ama Bus]] services, or auto-rickshaws to reach the airport.<ref name="PT">{{Cite web |title=Biju Patnaik Airport - Transport|url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/transport/bhubaneswar|access-date=21 December 2025 |website=[[Airports Authority of India]]}}</ref> | |||
===Roadways=== | |||
[[File:Aerial view of flyover, Bhubaneswar.jpg|thumb|[[National Highway 16 (India)|National Highway 16]] passing through [[Bhubaneswar]]]] | |||
Road connectivity is the most widely used mode of access to and from BBI due to the airport's proximity to the city core. The airport is directly connected to major arterial roads and benefits from access to [[National Highway 16 (India)|National Highway 16]], which runs along India's eastern corridor connecting Kolkata and Chennai. | |||
App-based cab services such as Uber and Ola operate extensively from the airport, along with prepaid taxi services available at designated counters inside the terminal. Private vehicles, hotel shuttles, and self-drive cars are also commonly used.<ref name="PT"/> | |||
Ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects such as the Capital Region Ring Road development is expected to further ease congestion and improve road access to the airport in the coming years.<ref>{{cite news|title=Cabinet approves construction of 6-Lane Access-Controlled Capital Region Ring Road (Bhubaneswar Bypass, 110.875 km) in Odisha|url=https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2157891®=3&lang=2|access-date=21 December 2016|date=19 August 2025}}</ref> | |||
===Buses=== | |||
{{Main|Ama Bus|Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal}} | |||
[[File:MoBus AC Bus.jpg|thumb|[[Ama Bus]] city bus service in [[Bhubaneswar]]]] | |||
[[File:ISBT Baramunda Bhubaneswar.jpg|thumb|ISBT at [[Baramunda]], [[Bhubaneswar]]]] | |||
Bus transport provides an affordable and reliable public transport option for airport connectivity. The [[Ama Bus]] service, operated by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), runs scheduled city buses connecting the airport with key locations including Bhubaneswar Railway Station, major residential areas, and commercial hubs.<ref>{{cite news|title=Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation - City Bus Services|url=https://www.bmc.gov.in/services/city-bus-services|access-date=21 December 2016}}</ref> | |||
In addition, Airport Express (AE) and Double Decker (DD) services connect the airport with nearby cities like [[Cuttack]] and [[Puri]], offering a low-cost alternative to taxis for intercity travellers. For long-distance bus travel, passengers typically use [[Inter-State Bus Terminals]] such as [[Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal]] and then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach the airport. | |||
====City Bus Routes==== | |||
{| class="wikitable sortable" | |||
|- | |||
!style="text-align:center;"|Route | |||
!style="text-align:center;"|Origin | |||
!style="text-align:center;"|Destination | |||
!style="text-align:center;"|Via | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|AE1 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal|Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal (CNBT)]] | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|National Highway 16 | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|AE2 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|Puri Bus Stand | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|Kalpana Square | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|DD1 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Jagannath Temple, Puri]] | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|Kalpana Square | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|10 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Maulana Azad National Urdu University]], [[Cuttack]] | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|Jaydev Vihar | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|17 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Barabati Stadium|Barabati Stadium, Cuttack]] | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|National Highway 16 | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|66 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|DN Wisdom Tree Global School | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences]] | |||
|- | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|82 | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|BPIA | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|[[Srirama Chandra Bhanja Medical College and Hospital|SCB Medical]] (Settlement Office) | |||
|style="text-align:center;"|National Highway 16 | |||
|- | |||
|} | |||
== Awards == | |||
The airport first gained national-level recognition in 2012–13, when it was adjudged as the best airport in India based on the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI).<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik Airport wins award|url=https://www.ndtv.com/bhubaneshwar-news/bhubaneswars-biju-patnaik-airport-wins-award-519272|work=[[NDTV]]|date=16 April 2013 |access-date=16 April 2013}}</ref> The airport achieved its most significant international milestone when it won the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for 2018, the results of which were announced and conferred in 2019 by Airports Council International (ACI). Under this recognition, BPIA was declared the Best Airport in the Asia-Pacific region in the 2–5 million passengers per annum category.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhubaneswar gets best Airport Service Quality 2018 award|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/business/aviation/biju-patnaik-international-airport-bhubaneswar-airport-service-quality-2018-award-5615720/ |work=[[The Indian Express]]|date=7 March 2019 |access-date=7 March 2019}}</ref> | |||
In 2019, the airport received the Odisha State Energy Conservation Award under the Meritorious Performance - Commercial Buildings category.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhubaneswar Airport Bagged Odisha State Energy Conservation Award|url=https://www.psuconnect.in/award/bhubaneswar-airport-bagged-odisha-state-energy-conservation-award|work=PSU Connect|date=17 December 2019|access-date=17 December 2019}}</ref> The award acknowledged the airport's efforts in energy-efficient lighting, optimized air-conditioning systems, and responsible energy management practices, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable airport operations within the state of Odisha. Continuing its emphasis on environmental responsibility, BPIA earned a Level-2 Carbon Reduction certification in 2020 under internationally accepted airport carbon accreditation frameworks.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhubaneswar airport goes green|url=https://businessindia.co/climate-change/airports/bhubaneswar-airport-goes-green|work=[[Business Today (India)]]|date=10 May 2023|access-date=10 May 2023}}</ref> | |||
During the COVID-19 period, the airport's passenger-centric approach was again acknowledged when it received the ACI Voice of Customer Recognition in 2021. This recognition is awarded to airports that consistently collect passenger feedback and use it to improve services, even during disruptive periods.<ref>{{cite news |title=Bhubaneswar Airport Chosen For Voice of Customer Recognition 2021 By ACI|url=https://odishatv.in/news/miscellaneous/bhubaneswar-airport-chosen-for-voice-of-customer-recognition-2021-by-aci-170308|work=[[Odisha FC]]|date=10 February 2022|access-date=10 February 2022}}</ref> | |||
== Accidents and incidents == | |||
* On 22 December 2007, an aircraft of [[Surya Kiran]], [[Indian Air Force]]'s aerobatics demonstration team, crash-landed while undergoing training exercise. After refuelling and takeoff, one of its four [[HAL HJT-16 Kiran]] jets caught fire and crash landed on the runway of Biju Patnaik Airport. The pilot was rescued with minor injuries and the exercise was immediately called off after the mishap.<ref>{{cite news |title=IAF aircraft crash landed at Bhubaneswar airport |url=https://www.oneindia.com/2007/12/22/iaf-aircraft-crash-landed-at-bhubaneswar-airport-1198310518.html |work=One India |date=22 December 2007 |access-date=2 December 2023}}</ref> | |||
==See also== | ==See also== | ||
* [[Airports in India]] | * [[Airports in India]] | ||
* [[List of | * [[Aviation in India]] | ||
* [[ | * [[List of airports in Odisha]] | ||
* [[List of busiest airports in India]] | |||
==References== | ==References== | ||
| Line 95: | Line 230: | ||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||
{{commons category inline|Biju Patnaik International Airport}} | {{commons category-inline|Biju Patnaik International Airport}} | ||
*[https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport] at [[Airports Authority of India]] | *[https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/bhubaneswar Biju Patnaik International Airport] at [[Airports Authority of India]] | ||
{{Airports in India | {{Portal bar|India|Aviation}} | ||
{{Airports in Odisha}} | |||
{{Airports in India}} | |||
[[Category:Buildings and structures in Bhubaneswar]] | [[Category:Buildings and structures in Bhubaneswar]] | ||
[[Category:Airports in Odisha]] | [[Category:Airports in Odisha]] | ||
[[Category:International airports in India]] | |||
[[Category:Transport in Bhubaneswar]] | [[Category:Transport in Bhubaneswar]] | ||
[[Category:Memorials to Biju Patnaik]] | [[Category:Memorials to Biju Patnaik]] | ||
[[Category:1962 establishments in Orissa]] | [[Category:1962 establishments in Orissa]] | ||
[[Category:Airports established in 1962]] | [[Category:Airports established in 1962]] | ||
[[Category:20th-century architecture in India]] | |||
[[Category:Airports Authority of India]] | |||
Latest revision as of 16:54, 19 March 2026
Biju Patnaik Airport | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
.jpg) | |||||||||||
 Satellite image of the airport | |||||||||||
| Summary | |||||||||||
| Airport type | Public | ||||||||||
| Owner/Operator | Airports Authority of India | ||||||||||
| Serves | Bhubaneswar | ||||||||||
| Location | Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India | ||||||||||
| Opened | 17 April 1962 | ||||||||||
| Hub for | IndiaOne Air, IndiGo | ||||||||||
| Elevation AMSL | 42 m / 138 ft | ||||||||||
| Coordinates | 20°14′40″N 085°49′04″E / 20.24444°N 85.81778°E | ||||||||||
| Website | Bhubaneswar Airport | ||||||||||
| Maps | |||||||||||
  BBI Location of airport in Odisha  BBI BBI (India) | |||||||||||
| Lua error in Module:Infobox_mapframe at line 197: attempt to index field 'wikibase' (a nil value). | |||||||||||
| Runways | |||||||||||
| |||||||||||
| Statistics (April 2024 – March 2025) | |||||||||||
| |||||||||||
Biju Patnaik Airport (IATA: BBI, ICAO: VEBS) is an international airport serving Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, India. It is situated around 4 kilometres (2.5 mi) south-west of Bhubaneswar Railway Station and 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) from the city center.[4]
Named after Biju Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, famed aviator and freedom fighter, it is the 15th busiest airport in India and the 11th busiest among the airports maintained by the Airports Authority of India. It is the 19th busiest airport in India in terms of cargo traffic. In the fiscal year 2024–25, it handled over 4.8 million passengers and around 9.1 thousand metric tonnes of cargo.[1][3]
History[edit | edit source]
The airport was dedicated to the people of Odisha on 17 April 1962, becoming the first ever commercial airport in the state. The airport boasts two active scheduled passenger terminals, Terminals 1 and 2, for domestic and international passengers respectively.
In March 2013, the former Minister of Civil Aviation, Ajit Singh, inaugurated Terminal 1, which caters to domestic passengers, whereas Terminal 2 was then refurbished to handle international operations.[5] On 30 October 2013, the Government of India accorded international status to the airport after Air India started flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok and AirAsia started flights to Kuala Lumpur.[6][7][8] However, these routes were terminated later due to COVID-19.[9] In September 2013, the airport management took a significant step towards sustainability by launching a green energy initiative with the installation of a 100KW rooftop solar power plant.[10]
In June 2022, the addition of eight new apron bays increased the total number of bays to 24, making it the largest apron facility in Eastern India. This upgrade supports remote parking and night operations, and paved the way for Terminal 3 development.[11]
In May 2023, the airport opened a 4MW ground‑mounted solar power plant, making Biju Patnaik International Airport the first fully solar-powered airport in India, operating entirely on renewable energy.[12] International operations resumed from Bhubaneswar in May 2023 after IndiGo started direct flights to Bangkok, Dubai and Singapore.[13][14]
In February 2024, a new link building was inaugurated to connect Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, allowing international passengers seamless access to passenger boarding bridges in the Terminal 1.[15]
Terminals[edit | edit source]
Biju Patnaik International Airport is a key civil aviation hub in Eastern India. It houses two active passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, along with a dedicated International Cargo Terminal to support freight operations.
Terminal 1[edit | edit source]
Arts of Odisha in Terminal 1:
Sand Art of Lord Jagannath by Sudarsan Pattnaik (top), Masks of Raghurajpur (middle), and Mural of Nataraja (bottom)
Sand Art of Lord Jagannath by Sudarsan Pattnaik (top), Masks of Raghurajpur (middle), and Mural of Nataraja (bottom)
Terminal 1, inaugurated in March 2013, is a modern and efficient domestic gateway, originally built in 2013 with capacity for ~4 million annual passengers to cater the full spectrum of domestic passenger traffic for the state.[16][5][17]
Terminal 1, a two-storied building with a total area of 18,240 square metres (196,300 sq ft) constructed at an estimated cost of ₹ 1.45 billion by Lanco Infratech, consists of four aerobridges, four elevators, several escalators, 18 check-in counters, three arrival luggage conveyors, a spa, and multiple lounges.[5][18]
The terminal building is designed with green building standards, featuring rainwater harvesting, sewage treatment, and Odisha-inspired artwork and décor along internal walls, giving travellers cultural insight into the region.[19] The new terminal also has food kiosks, gift shops, bookstores, art galleries and handloom/handicraft kiosks.[20]
Terminal 2[edit | edit source]
Terminal 2 serves as the dedicated international terminal, playing a key role in the airport's growing international connectivity and passenger capacity. Originally constructed in the mid-1960s to cater to domestic operations, Terminal 2 was refurbished and repurposed after Bhubaneswar was granted international status in October 2013. Since then, it has handled international passenger traffic and become a crucial link between Odisha and major global destinations.
The terminal being built over an area of 6,264 square metres (67,430 sq ft), consists of 6 check-in counters, 10 immigration counters, four customs counters, numerous amenities and multiple seating areas.[21]
A link building measuring 3,360 square metres (36,200 sq ft) link building connects Terminal 1 (domestic) with Terminal 2 (international). This skybridge was inaugurated in February 2024, significantly improving the movement of passengers and offering a seamless transfer experience between domestic and international flights. Constructed at an approximate cost of 872 million, the terminal also reflects Odisha's architectural identity with subtle design cues and improved passenger handling mechanisms.[15]
Terminal 3[edit | edit source]
Terminal 3 is a planned expansion to accommodate the rapid growth in passenger traffic and improve the airport's operational capacity. As of 2025, the Government of India has approved the development of the third terminal, which is intended to address congestion at the existing facilities and prepare the airport for future demand. The proposal comes amid rising passenger numbers at the airport, with authorities recognising the need for expanded infrastructure.[22]
Terminal 3 will house both arrivals and departures within the same building, improving passenger convenience and operational logistics. The footprint of T3 is designed to be approximately 65,000 square metres (700,000 sq ft), making it a substantial addition to the airport's built environment. With this scale, the new terminal is projected to handle around 8.6 million passengers per year. The development is also planned to include about six additional aerobridges to support aircraft operations and improve boarding efficiency.[23]
In addition to the functional aspects, planners intend for Terminal 3 to reflect Odisha's cultural identity in its architectural and interior design. Officials, including the Union Civil Aviation Minister, have noted that the terminal will highlight the state's heritage, art, history, and legacy, so that visitors arriving in Bhubaneswar can immediately experience a sense of local identity through the terminal's aesthetics and ambience. The estimated cost for constructing the new terminal is around ₹10 billion, and while design approvals and planning are underway, final execution is subject to formal sanctioning The project has been discussed in multiple stakeholder meetings, and land for the terminal has been identified adjacent to the existing Terminal 1.[24]
International Cargo Terminal[edit | edit source]
Integrated Cargo Terminal at the Biju Patnaik International Airport serves as a key facility for managing both domestic and international freight movement in Odisha. Managed by AAICLAS (AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Ltd), the terminal has a handling capacity of 26,490 metric tonnes, strengthening Bhubaneswar's position as an emerging air logistics center in Eastern India.[25][26]
International cargo operations at Biju Patnaik International Airport originally began in 2017 but were discontinued following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The suspension of direct flights between Bhubaneswar and key international destinations like Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok in 2019 further impacted these services.[27]
Since the relaunch of direct international cargo operations in January 2024, Biju Patnaik International Airport has developed the required infrastructure and regulatory clearances to support import and export activities directly with global destinations. At present, cargo flights connect Bhubaneswar with Dubai, Singapore, and Bangkok, with additional routes in progress. A major milestone was achieved on 15 May 2024, when the airport handled its first international shipment of perishable goods from Bhubaneswar to Dubai.[28]
Runways[edit | edit source]
The airport features a single primary runway, 14/32, used for all major flight operations. It is supported by two taxiways, one intersecting and one parallel. The intersecting taxiway primarily handles light aircraft movements, while the full-length parallel taxiway facilitates efficient operations for narrow-body aircraft.[29]
| Runway | Length | Width | Approach Lights/ILS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14/32 | 2,744 m (9,003 ft) | 45 m (148 ft) | CAT-I / CAT-II |
Coast Guard Air Enclave[edit | edit source]
Indian Coast Guard's Air Enclave along with its 743 Dornier Squadron was commissioned by former Vice-Admiral Anurag G Thapliyal, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard at the Biju Patnaik International Airport on 15 December 2014.[30] The units operate under the operational and administrative control of the Commander of the Coast Guard Region (North East) through the Commander, Coast Guard District No 7 (Odisha). Several strategic air operations are streamlined and synergised for the protection of the sea areas off the Coastal Odisha.[31]
Airlines and destinations[edit | edit source]
Connectivity[edit | edit source]
The airport handles both domestic and international operations through its integrated terminal and is managed by the Airports Authority of India. Due to its central location within the city, connectivity to and from the airport is considered one of the strongest among state capitals in Eastern India.
Railways[edit | edit source]
Rail connectivity to BBI is primarily supported by Bhubaneswar Railway Station, which lies about 3–5 km away and can be reached within 10–15 minutes by road under normal traffic conditions. Bhubaneswar serves as the headquarters of the East Coast Railway zone of the Indian Railways and provides frequent express, superfast, and premium train services connecting the city with majority of the Indian cities.[40] Passengers arriving by train typically use taxis, app-based cabs, Ama Bus services, or auto-rickshaws to reach the airport.[41]
Roadways[edit | edit source]
Road connectivity is the most widely used mode of access to and from BBI due to the airport's proximity to the city core. The airport is directly connected to major arterial roads and benefits from access to National Highway 16, which runs along India's eastern corridor connecting Kolkata and Chennai.
App-based cab services such as Uber and Ola operate extensively from the airport, along with prepaid taxi services available at designated counters inside the terminal. Private vehicles, hotel shuttles, and self-drive cars are also commonly used.[41]
Ongoing and proposed infrastructure projects such as the Capital Region Ring Road development is expected to further ease congestion and improve road access to the airport in the coming years.[42]
Buses[edit | edit source]
Bus transport provides an affordable and reliable public transport option for airport connectivity. The Ama Bus service, operated by the Capital Region Urban Transport (CRUT), runs scheduled city buses connecting the airport with key locations including Bhubaneswar Railway Station, major residential areas, and commercial hubs.[43]
In addition, Airport Express (AE) and Double Decker (DD) services connect the airport with nearby cities like Cuttack and Puri, offering a low-cost alternative to taxis for intercity travellers. For long-distance bus travel, passengers typically use Inter-State Bus Terminals such as Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bus Terminal and then transfer to local buses or taxis to reach the airport.
City Bus Routes[edit | edit source]
| Route | Origin | Destination | Via |
|---|---|---|---|
| AE1 | BPIA | Cuttack Netaji Bus Terminal (CNBT) | National Highway 16 |
| AE2 | BPIA | Puri Bus Stand | Kalpana Square |
| DD1 | BPIA | Jagannath Temple, Puri | Kalpana Square |
| 10 | BPIA | Maulana Azad National Urdu University, Cuttack | Jaydev Vihar |
| 17 | BPIA | Barabati Stadium, Cuttack | National Highway 16 |
| 66 | BPIA | DN Wisdom Tree Global School | Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences |
| 82 | BPIA | SCB Medical (Settlement Office) | National Highway 16 |
Awards[edit | edit source]
The airport first gained national-level recognition in 2012–13, when it was adjudged as the best airport in India based on the Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI).[44] The airport achieved its most significant international milestone when it won the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award for 2018, the results of which were announced and conferred in 2019 by Airports Council International (ACI). Under this recognition, BPIA was declared the Best Airport in the Asia-Pacific region in the 2–5 million passengers per annum category.[45]
In 2019, the airport received the Odisha State Energy Conservation Award under the Meritorious Performance - Commercial Buildings category.[46] The award acknowledged the airport's efforts in energy-efficient lighting, optimized air-conditioning systems, and responsible energy management practices, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable airport operations within the state of Odisha. Continuing its emphasis on environmental responsibility, BPIA earned a Level-2 Carbon Reduction certification in 2020 under internationally accepted airport carbon accreditation frameworks.[47]
During the COVID-19 period, the airport's passenger-centric approach was again acknowledged when it received the ACI Voice of Customer Recognition in 2021. This recognition is awarded to airports that consistently collect passenger feedback and use it to improve services, even during disruptive periods.[48]
Accidents and incidents[edit | edit source]
- On 22 December 2007, an aircraft of Surya Kiran, Indian Air Force's aerobatics demonstration team, crash-landed while undergoing training exercise. After refuelling and takeoff, one of its four HAL HJT-16 Kiran jets caught fire and crash landed on the runway of Biju Patnaik Airport. The pilot was rescued with minor injuries and the exercise was immediately called off after the mishap.[49]
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Annexure III – Passenger Data" (PDF). aai.aero. Retrieved 26 April 2025.
- ↑ "Annexure II – Aircraft Movement Data" (PDF). aai.aero. Retrieved 26 April 2025.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Annexure IV – Freight Movement Data" (PDF). aai.aero. Retrieved 26 April 2025.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar Airport". Airport Economic Regulatory Authority. Archived from the original on 29 January 2019. Retrieved 3 January 2019.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "New terminal at Bhubaneswar airport starts operations". Business Standard. 14 March 2013. Archived from the original on 30 December 2013. Retrieved 17 March 2013.
- ↑ "Centre accords international tag to Bhubaneswar airport". The Times of India. 31 October 2013. Archived from the original on 31 December 2013. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
- ↑ "Air India to commence Bhubaneswar to Bangkok direct flights from December 10". Indian Express. Retrieved 5 December 2017.
- ↑ "AirAsia starts Operations on Kuala Lumpur-Bhubaneswar Route". www.ntvprofit.com. 27 April 2017. Retrieved 27 April 2017.
- ↑ "Air India Suspends Bhubaneswar to Bangkok Flight Service". Odisha TV. Archived from the original on 22 July 2018. Retrieved 17 July 2018.
- ↑ "Biju Patnaik airport turns to solar power for energy needs". The Times of India. 3 September 2023. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
- ↑ "Work on 8 more apron bays at the city airport ends". The Times of India. 8 June 2022. Retrieved 8 June 2022.
- ↑ Raj, Amulya (7 May 2023). "Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik International Airport Becomes Self-Sustainable, Installs 4 MP Solar Power Plant". Zee News. Retrieved 9 May 2023.
- ↑ "Indigo Adds Bhubaneswar – Dubai From May 2023". Aeroroutes. Retrieved 3 April 2023.
- ↑ "IndiGo strengthens connectivity to Southeast Asia, adds flights connecting Singapore, Bangkok". Zee Business. 3 May 2023. Retrieved 3 May 2023.
- ↑ 15.0 15.1 "Bhubaneswar Airport Update: Odisha's Biju Patnaik International Airport unveils new terminal link building to enhance passenger connectivity". The Financial Express (India). 8 February 2024. Retrieved 8 February 2024.
- ↑ "Lanco Infratech bags Rs 92 cr order from AAI". Business Standard. 4 June 2010. Archived from the original on 30 December 2013. Retrieved 30 December 2013.
- ↑ Singha, Minati (5 March 2013). "International airport to take off by June". Times of India. Archived from the original on 24 September 2016. Retrieved 5 March 2013.
- ↑ Barik, Bibhuti (24 June 2011). "Airport work speeds up – Capital set for take-off in style". The Telegraph. Calcutta, India. Archived from the original on 1 August 2013. Retrieved 17 March 2013.
- ↑ "New terminal at Bhubaneswar airport thrown open". The Times of India. 6 March 2013. Archived from the original on 8 March 2013. Retrieved 17 March 2013.
- ↑ Ramanath V, Riyan (5 February 2013). "Plans to provide spa facilities at airport". The Times of India. Archived from the original on 30 December 2013. Retrieved 18 March 2013.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar - Technical Information". Airports Authority of India. 22 August 2016. Archived from the original on 7 June 2017. Retrieved 25 May 2017.
- ↑ Karim, Mohammed Imteshal (25 August 2025). "Bhubaneswar Airport's third terminal approved, design to highlight Odisha's heritage: Union Civil Aviation Minister". Odisha TV. Retrieved 25 August 2025.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar Airport set for major expansion". Dinalipi. 8 July 2025. Retrieved 8 July 2025.
- ↑ Ramanath V, Riyan (7 July 2025). "Proposed T3 terminal at city airport to have arrival departure facilities". The Times of India. Retrieved 7 July 2025.
- ↑ "Improvement in Air Cargo Capacity" (PDF). Parliament of India. 19 December 2012. Retrieved 19 December 2022.
- ↑ "AAICLAS: Facilities". aaiclas.aero. Retrieved 26 June 2024.
- ↑ "BPIA, Bhubaneswar set to relaunch international cargo operations in September". 8 July 2023. Retrieved 8 July 2023.
- ↑ "Odisha: International air cargo service resumes at BPIA". 1 February 2024. Retrieved 1 February 2024.
- ↑ "VEBS - BIJU PATNAIK INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, BHUBANESWAR". aai.aero. Retrieved 22 July 2025.
- ↑ "Coast Guard's new air enclave inaugurated in Bhubaneswar". 15 December 2014. Archived from the original on 13 October 2016. Retrieved 12 October 2016.
- ↑ "Commissioning of Coast Guard Air Enclave Bhubaneswar & 743 Squadron (CG)". 15 December 2014. Retrieved 12 October 2016.
- ↑ Cassian, Baliarsingh (31 August 2023). "Odisha's Utkela Airport welcomes first flight from Bhubaneswar; check timings, price, other details". Odisha TV. Retrieved 31 August 2023.
- ↑ "Flight links Jamshedpur with Kolkata, Bhubaneswar". Press Trust of India. 31 January 2023. Retrieved 31 January 2023.
- ↑ "After six months halt, aircraft takes flight from Rourkela". The New Indian Express. 6 December 2025. Retrieved 20 December 2025.
- ↑ "IndiGo expands domestic network with new routes connecting Bhubaneswar, Dehradun and Srinagar – Check timings, other details". Financial Express. 31 December 2024. Retrieved 31 December 2024.
- ↑ Baliarsingh, Cassian (31 August 2024). "IndiGo introduces direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Bagdogra via Durgapur". Odisha TV. Retrieved 1 September 2024.
- ↑ Ranjan, Rashmi (20 March 2025). "Bhubaneswar-Goa direct flight from April 2025". Odisha TV. Retrieved 20 March 2025.
- ↑ "IndiGo to resume Lucknow-Raipur-Bhubaneswar service from Jun-2023". CAPA. Retrieved 22 May 2023.
- ↑ "Star Air - Flight Schedule". Star Air. Retrieved 21 July 2023.
- ↑ "Railway Zones and Divisions in The Country". Press Information Bureau. Ministry of Railways (Government of India). 21 July 2017. Retrieved 1 January 2025.
- ↑ 41.0 41.1 "Biju Patnaik Airport - Transport". Airports Authority of India. Retrieved 21 December 2025.
- ↑ "Cabinet approves construction of 6-Lane Access-Controlled Capital Region Ring Road (Bhubaneswar Bypass, 110.875 km) in Odisha". 19 August 2025. Retrieved 21 December 2016.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation - City Bus Services". Retrieved 21 December 2016.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar's Biju Patnaik Airport wins award". NDTV. 16 April 2013. Retrieved 16 April 2013.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar gets best Airport Service Quality 2018 award". The Indian Express. 7 March 2019. Retrieved 7 March 2019.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar Airport Bagged Odisha State Energy Conservation Award". PSU Connect. 17 December 2019. Retrieved 17 December 2019.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar airport goes green". Business Today (India). 10 May 2023. Retrieved 10 May 2023.
- ↑ "Bhubaneswar Airport Chosen For Voice of Customer Recognition 2021 By ACI". Odisha FC. 10 February 2022. Retrieved 10 February 2022.
- ↑ "IAF aircraft crash landed at Bhubaneswar airport". One India. 22 December 2007. Retrieved 2 December 2023.
