Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar is gearing up for significant infrastructure enhancements, including a parallel taxi track (PTT) and rapid exit taxiway (RET), following an inspection by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).
Faster Aircraft Movement with New Taxiways
As per reports, construction of both the 1,566-meter parallel taxi track (Phase 2) and rapid exit taxiway has been completed. Once DGCA approval is granted, these improvements will streamline aircraft movement, reducing wait times and increasing operational efficiency. The enhanced PTT will boost the airport’s capacity from 15 to 20 aircraft per hour, while the RET will allow aircraft to exit the 2,744-meter runway after 1,300 meters, expediting arrivals and departures.
Terminal 3 to Handle Surging Passenger Traffic
With rising passenger volumes exceeding 50 lakh annually, BPIA is set to begin construction of Terminal 3 in 2025, expanding capacity to 80 lakh passengers per year. The ₹1,000 crore project, spanning 30,000 sqm, will feature world-class amenities and position Bhubaneswar as a key aviation hub in eastern India.
Green Initiative: Electric Vehicles for Aircraft Towing
In a move towards sustainability, BPIA has introduced plans to replace diesel-powered towing tractors with electric vehicles (EVs), reducing emissions and operational costs for airlines.
Enhanced Air Traffic Control & Future Expansions
The airport’s new automated ATC tower, commissioned in October 2023 with technology from Bharat Electronics Limited, has significantly improved air traffic management under the Make in India initiative.
Meanwhile, Odisha’s aviation sector is witnessing rapid expansion, with plans underway for a new international airport in Puri and upgrades to Rourkela and other regional airports, further strengthening the state’s air connectivity.
