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Nestled in the lively city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Biju Patnaik Airport (BBI) serves as the gateway to the rich heritage, culture and modern connectivity of Eastern India. Named after the legendary aviator and freedom fighter, Biju Patnaik, this airport is not only a critical hub for domestic and international flights but also a symbol of Odisha’s growth and sustainable development. 

From seamless flight operations to world-class passenger amenities, BBI offers travellers an experience that is as smooth as it is memorable. Whether you are flying for business, leisure or cultural exploration, understanding Bhubaneswar Airport ensures a journey that is stress-free and enjoyable.

History of Biju Patnaik Airport

The legacy of Biju Patnaik Airport dates back to its inauguration on 17 April 1962, marking it as the first commercial airport in Odisha. Over the decades, it has evolved from a modest domestic facility into a bustling international airport. Named after Biju Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha and celebrated aviator, the airport honors his spirit of innovation and courage.

In October 2013, BBI became an international airport with Air India and AirAsia starting flights to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok. Although the pandemic temporarily stopped international flights, services to Bangkok, Dubai and Singapore resumed in May 2023, showing the airport’s growing global connections.

BBI is also focused on sustainability. It became India’s first fully solar-powered airport with a 4MW ground-mounted solar plant, building on earlier rooftop solar panels and rainwater harvesting projects. 

Location and Connectivity

BBI is conveniently located in Bhubaneswar, just 3–6 kilometers from the city center. Travelers can reach the airport in 15–20 minutes by car or taxi. For those using public transport, pre-paid taxis, private buses and nearby bus stands make getting to the airport easy and hassle-free.

The airport is also well connected by train. Bhubaneswar Railway Station is only 4–5 kilometers away and Cuttack Railway Station is about 26 kilometers from the airport. Whether it’s your first visit or you fly often, getting to Biju Patnaik Airport is simple and convenient.

Terminals at (Biju Patnaik) Bhubaneswar Airport

BBI has two modern terminals. The domestic terminal handles flights within India, while the international terminal connects passengers to destinations around the world. There is also a dedicated cargo terminal, making BBI an important hub for Eastern India.

Terminal 1 – Domestic Flights

Terminal 1, inaugurated in 2013, is a state-of-the-art domestic gateway with a built-up area of 18,240 sq. meters. It accommodates around 4 million passengers annually and features:

  • 18 check-in counters and multiple security check booths
  • 4 aerobridges for smooth boarding
  • 3 luggage conveyors and modern passenger lounges
  • Elevators, escalators and accessible pathways for all travellers
  • Green initiatives, including rainwater harvesting and sustainable design elements

Terminal 1 also houses a vibrant mix of food kiosks, bookstores, gift shops, art galleries and handloom handicraft stalls, offering travellers a glimpse of Odisha’s culture while they wait for their flights.

Terminal 2 – International Flights

The international terminal, spread over 6,264 sq. meters, was refurbished in 2013 following BBI’s international designation. Key features include:

  • 6 check-in counters, 10 immigration counters and 4 customs counters
  • Multiple seating areas with comfortable lounges
  • Skybridge connectivity linking Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, allowing seamless transfer between domestic and international flights
  • Design elements reflecting Odisha’s architectural heritage

This terminal handles international flights to destinations including Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, reinforcing BBI’s role as a global gateway.

Cargo Terminal

BBI’s Integrated Cargo Terminal can handle up to 26,490 metric tonnes of goods, supporting both domestic and international shipments. Managed by AAICLAS (AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Ltd), it helps with imports and exports. Recently, the terminal handled its first shipment of perishable goods to Dubai.

The terminal had paused operations during the pandemic but restarted in January 2024, boosting Odisha’s air cargo and logistics capabilities.

Runways and Apron Facilities

The airport has a main runway, numbered 14/32, which is 2,744 meters long and 45 meters wide. It is equipped with advanced CAT-I and CAT-II lighting systems to help planes land safely. There are two taxiways one that crosses the runway and one that runs alongside it so aircraft can move around the airport easily.

In 2022, 8 new parking bays were added, bringing the total to 24. This makes the apron the largest in Eastern India and allows planes to park remotely and even operate at night.

With these modern runway and apron facilities, BBI can handle different types of aircraft efficiently. This ensures that flights are safe, on time and run smoothly.

Airlines and Flight Operations

Bhubaneswar Airport serves as a hub for several domestic and international airlines:

Domestic Airlines and Destinations:

  • IndiGo: Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Visakhapatnam, Kochi and more
  • Air India / Air India Express: Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Port Blair, Pune

International Airlines and Destinations:

  • IndiGo: Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Dubai, Singapore
  • Air India & AirAsia: Past international routes to Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok

BBI handles over 4.8 million passengers annually with aircraft movements exceeding 37,000 flights per year, reflecting its importance as a growing aviation hub in Eastern India.

Book Your Flights to Bhubaneswar with FlightsMojo

Travelling to Bhubaneswar has never been easier thanks to FlightsMojo – your ultimate platform for booking flights to and from Biju Patnaik Airport.

  • Compare flights instantly from multiple airlines, including IndiGo, Air India, Spicejet, Akasa Air, Air India Express, Alliance Air and Star Air, ensuring you find the best deals without wasting time.
  • Enjoy real-time availability, instant e-tickets and seamless check-ins for both domestic and international flights.
  • Take advantage of flexible booking options, allowing cancellations, rescheduling or modifications with ease.
  • Benefit from exclusive offers and discounts on Bhubaneswar flights, making your journey budget-friendly.
  • With 24/7 customer support, FlightsMojo ensures that your queries about flight schedules, baggage policies or airport connectivity are resolved promptly.

Booking with FlightsMojo transforms your journey from planning to boarding at Bhubaneswar Airport into a smooth, stress-free experience. Whether you’re exploring temples, heritage sites or Odisha’s scenic landscapes, FlightsMojo ensures your flight experience matches the excitement of your destination.

Facilities at Bhubaneswar Airport

Bhubaneswar Airport is designed for passenger comfort and convenience:

  • Baggage Services: Free trolleys, luggage wrapping and a lost & found service to help with your bags.
  • Accessibility: Wheelchairs and escorts are available for differently-abled travellers.
  • Financial Services: ATMs, cash machines and currency exchange counters for your convenience.
  • Healthcare: Medical facilities are ready to handle emergencies.
  • Transportation: Taxi stands, car rentals and pre-paid booths make getting to and from the airport easy.
  • Lounges and Dining: Cafes, restaurants, snack bars and passenger lounges to relax and enjoy your time.
  • Shopping: Gift shops, bookstores and kiosks featuring Odisha’s handloom and handicrafts.
  • Duty-Free Stores: Alcohol, perfumes, cigarettes and luxury items for international travelers.
  • Parking: Short-term and long-term parking, including expanded spaces for luxury coaches and taxis.

Things to Do While Waiting at the Bhubaneswar Airport

BBI provides more than just flights – it’s a destination in itself:

  • Purchase souvenirs and handicrafts at gift shops
  • Shop for apparel, shoes and traditional crafts
  • Enjoy cafés and restaurants offering local and global cuisines
  • Relax in lounges while waiting for your flight

These amenities make waiting at Biju Patnaik Airport a delightful part of your journey.

Hotels Near Bhubaneswar Airport

For travelers who want comfort and convenience there are several hotels near Bhubaneswar Airport that offer great stays. Mayfair Lagoon provides premium rooms with beautiful lake views, perfect for a relaxing stay. The Presidency is located in the heart of the city and offers modern amenities for both business and leisure travelers. Trident Hotel delivers five-star comfort along with excellent dining options, ensuring a luxurious experience.

For those looking for budget-friendly choices, there are several good options as well. Treebo The Aura, Fortune Park Sishmo and Mango Hotels provide comfortable rooms at affordable prices, making them ideal for travelers who want value without compromising on convenience.

Whether you prefer luxury or a budget stay, the hotels near BBI cater to every traveler’s needs, making your trip enjoyable and hassle-free.

Bhubaneswar Tourism and Highlights

This city is known as the City of Temples as Bhubaneswar blends ancient heritage with modern infrastructure.

Must-Visit Attractions in this city :

  • Lingaraj Temple & ISKCON Temple: These temples are not only architectural marvels but also hold great spiritual significance attracting visitors who want to experience culture and devotion.
  • Hirakud Dam & Bindu Sarovar: These scenic spots provides a peaceful surroundings perfect for relaxing and enjoying nature.
  • Orissa State Museum: This museum houses a unique collection of ancient art, giving visitors a glimpse into Odisha’s rich history and heritage.
  • Nandankanan Zoological Park: This is a popular attraction as  it is home to a wide variety of Jungle animal species and is ideal for family visits.

Best Time to Visit: The months from October to February are the best, with cool and pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing. When the monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making travel less convenient.

Conclusion

From its rich history to modern facilities, Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI) is a key part of Eastern India’s aviation scene. Whether you are flying within India or going abroad, BBI makes your journey comfortable, efficient and smooth while connecting you to the cultural richness of Bhubaneswar.

With FlightsMojo, booking your next journey to or from Bhubaneswar has never been such easier like never before. Enjoy real-time flight options, unbeatable deals and stress-free travel planning, making your entire trip from booking to boarding a delightful experience. 

Explore Bhubaneswar and discover its heritage and take off with confidence while knowing that FlightsMojo and BBI have you covered every step of the way.

All About Bhubaneswar International Airport- FAQs

1. What are the operating hours of Bhubaneswar Airport?

Biju Patnaik Airport operates 24/7, accommodating both domestic and international flights. However, check-in counters and lounges follow airline-specific schedules, so passengers should confirm timings before arriving.

2. How early should I arrive for a domestic or international flight at Bhubaneswar Airport?

For domestic flights, it’s recommended to arrive 2 hours before departure. For international flights you should reach at least 3 hours in advance to allow time for immigration, customs and security checks.

3. Does Biju Patnaik Airport provide free Wi-Fi?

Yes, BBI offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, ensuring travellers can stay connected while waiting for flights.

4. Are there special facilities for differently-abled passengers?

BBI provides wheelchairs with escorts, accessible ramps, reserved seating and specially trained staff to assist differently-abled travellers throughout the airport.

5. Can I pre-book airport transfers or taxis from Bhubaneswar Airport?

Passengers can pre-book taxis, car rentals or luxury coaches via various apps or directly at the pre-paid taxi booth inside the airport for safe and convenient transfers to hotels or city destinations.

6. Is there a baggage wrapping or luggage storage facility at BBI?

Yes, travellers can wrap their luggage for protection or store bags temporarily at designated facilities, ensuring safe handling while exploring the city.

7. Does Biju Patnaik Airport have lounges and how can I access them?

BBI features premium lounges in both domestic and international terminals. Access is available via airline programs, paid passes or certain credit cards. Lounges provide seating, refreshments and charging facilities.

8. Are there medical services available at the airport in case of emergencies?

Yes, BBI has medical facilities and first aid services for passengers, ensuring quick attention for emergencies. Pharmacies may also be available near arrival areas.

9. Can I find food and beverages for all budgets at the airport?

Absolutely. BBI offers a variety of options, from quick snack kiosks to cafés and restaurants, featuring both local Odia cuisine and international fare to suit all tastes and budgets.

10. How can I find duty-free shops at Biju Patnaik Airport?

Duty-free stores are located in the international terminal, offering products such as alcohol, perfumes, chocolates and souvenirs. These shops are accessible to international travellers after security and immigration clearance.

11. Is there Wi-Fi or charging available for travellers waiting for flights?

Yes, charging points are available throughout the terminals and Wi-Fi is free, allowing travellers to work, stream or stay connected while waiting for boarding.

12. Are there hotels or accommodation options near Bhubaneswar Airport for early or late flights?

Yes, several hotels are located within a short drive from BBI, including Mayfair Lagoon, The Presidency, Trident Hotel, Treebo The Aura and Fortune Park Sishmo. Many offer shuttle services and FlightsMojo booking discounts.

13. Can I track my flight status while at the airport?

Passengers can track flights in real-time using airline apps, FlightsMojo or the airport’s flight information display systems (FIDS) located across terminals.

14. Are there facilities for families travelling with children?

Yes, BBI has child care rooms, stroller-friendly areas and seating for families, ensuring a comfortable experience for travellers with infants or young children.

15. Is parking available at Biju Patnaik Airport and what are the charges?

BBI provides short-term, long-term and premium parking spaces, including spots for luxury coaches and taxis. Charges vary depending on the duration and type of vehicle and payment can be made via cash or digital options.