BPIA Unveils Major Infrastructure and Technology Upgrades
Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar has reached significant milestones in infrastructure and technology development. The airport recently commissioned a state-of-the-art automation system. This system represents a major achievement for Indian aviation.
Indigenous Automation System Marks First for India
Last year, BPIA implemented an automation system developed through collaboration between Bharat Electronics Limited and the Airports Authority of India (AAI). This marked the first time any Indian airport has commissioned an indigenously made automation system. The airport also operates with a modern ATC tower and ATC system that meets all operational parameters.
BPIA's Position in Indian Aviation
BPIA ranks as the 13th largest airport in India for passenger and aircraft handling. Among airports managed by AAI, it holds the 5th position. In the eastern region, only Kolkata airport handles more traffic than Bhubaneswar.
Ground Operations Receive Major Boost
To improve ground operations, BPIA enhanced its capacity by developing a parallel taxi track and a rapid exit taxi track. Previously, the airport handled approximately 12 aircraft movements per hour. The current runway accommodates Airbus 321 and Boeing 737 aircraft, though it cannot handle larger planes like Boeing 777 or Airbus 340.
With the full operationalization of the rapid exit taxiway, BPIA expects to handle 22-23 aircraft per hour. This represents nearly double the previous capacity.
Passenger Growth Shows Mixed Trends
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhubaneswar airport experienced passenger growth around 19%. When normal operations resumed, passenger footfall jumped 45% in 2020-21. Subsequent years have seen growth rates between 12% and 20%.
Last year, growth slowed to about 10%, which airport officials attribute to skyrocketing airfares. Current growth stands at approximately 13%. Despite slower-than-expected growth, BPIA achieved 50 lakh passengers in 2025, up from 48 lakh the previous year.
Addressing Passenger Concerns
Some passengers have reported issues with parking touts and alleged harassment. Airport authorities acknowledge these concerns and confirm they are working to improve the situation. They are addressing individual cases and reaching out to affected passengers.
International Route Development Faces Challenges
BPIA stands ready to support airlines interested in launching new international routes, but response has been disappointing. A recent Abu Dhabi flight service stopped due to poor passenger response. While the Dubai route performs well, Singapore flights show less encouraging results. Bangkok routes may hold potential due to tourism demand.
Infrastructure Capacity and Passenger Comfort
Recent images showed passengers sitting on floors and staircases, raising questions about infrastructure adequacy. Airport officials explain this resulted from weather-related disruptions and some passengers choosing to sit for comfort. They describe this as an exceptional situation and express regret.
Cargo Operations and Future Expansion
Cargo growth remains modest, with outbound cargo averaging 8 tonnes monthly. Following current expansion plans, BPIA will accommodate at least 115 aircraft daily. The airport expects to reach passenger saturation around 2047.
Beyond that point, authorities will need alternatives. The new Terminal 3 (T3) will become operational. With government focus on developing two airports for tier 2 cities, Puri airport could complement Bhubaneswar's passenger load in the future.
