Bhubaneswar’s Transformative T3 Terminal Unveiled To Streamline Travel Operations With Integrated Arrival And Departure Services In India

Published on July 8, 2025

Bhubaneswar’s Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) is set to undergo a major transformation with the development of an integrated Terminal 3 (T3), which will consolidate both arrival and departure processing into a single, efficient space. Spanning an area of 65,000 square meters and with an investment of approximately ₹1,000 crore, this new terminal is designed to handle 8.6 million passengers annually, with a peak capacity of 3,000 passengers per hour. This initiative is a vital part of Odisha’s comprehensive strategy to upgrade its aviation infrastructure with a strong focus on sustainability.

The new terminal will address operational inefficiencies associated with having separate terminals for arrivals and departures. By bringing both functions under one roof, BPIA aims to enhance the passenger experience and improve the airport’s operational flow. Additionally, T3 will feature six new aerobridges, increasing the airport’s aircraft bay capacity to 24. This is a response to the growing demand for domestic flights and the rising number of commercial activities in the region. Bhubaneswar’s existing infrastructure includes a modular domestic terminal (T1) which opened in 2013, connected to an older international terminal (T2). However, the current daily passenger traffic exceeds 15,000, and the airport has reached its capacity, making the need for expansion urgent.

The T3 terminal is expected to promote inclusivity and accessibility by offering gender-neutral lounges and fully accessible concourses, which aligns with the modern standards of sustainable and equitable urban development. These features aim to improve the overall experience for a wide range of passengers while ensuring that the airport remains inclusive and forward-thinking.

Sustainability is a core aspect of the new terminal’s design. The T3 project will integrate zero-net carbon strategies, incorporating energy-efficient systems, solar power infrastructure, and sustainable water management techniques. The construction process will also focus on making the terminal resilient to Odisha’s monsoon seasons, with measures taken to safeguard against seasonal weather extremes. Additionally, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is working in partnership with local agencies to remove runway obstructions, including unauthorized buildings and trees, to clear the way for upgrades such as CAT-2 ILS lighting, which will enable safer landings in low-visibility conditions. These improvements are crucial, especially considering the wet season in Odisha when weather conditions can be challenging.

The development of T3 is a key part of Odisha’s broader urban expansion strategy. This includes plans for new Greenfield airports in Paradip and Puri to cater to the region’s growing economic clusters. With its enhanced connectivity, Bhubaneswar will be more firmly integrated into national air routes, complementing newly launched flights to destinations such as Patna, Lucknow, Kochi, Jaipur, Dehradun, and Indore. Furthermore, T3’s design will potentially incorporate elements of Odisha’s traditional temple architecture, providing a cultural touch to the modern facility. The terminal is also expected to feature commercial spaces that support local artisans and women-led enterprises, helping to boost regional economic growth. This infrastructure upgrade could stimulate local tourism, industrial investment, and improve inter-modal freight connectivity.

While the consolidation of terminals and the modernization of the airport offer clear operational benefits, the ₹1,000 crore project requires seamless coordination among various stakeholders. There are still obstacles to overcome, especially concerning the acquisition of land for the runway expansion. Developments in residential and commercial zones near the airport require careful zoning to prevent safety issues as urbanization around the airport grows rapidly. As the city continues to expand, it will be essential to balance these developments with aviation safety requirements to ensure the long-term viability of the airport and the surrounding area.

The construction of the integrated T3 terminal underscores Bhubaneswar’s aspirations to become an equitable, sustainable, and well-connected urban hub. By combining arrival and departure functions, embedding resilience into the design, and embracing the local cultural identity, the project aligns with Odisha’s vision to position itself as a modern economic powerhouse.

However, the success of this ambitious project depends on timely execution, the implementation of DGCA-approved safety protocols, and a transparent design process that incorporates local aesthetics while engaging with the community. By focusing on these aspects, the development of T3 will enhance Bhubaneswar’s reputation as a green, accessible city, ready to accommodate future growth in aviation and tourism.