Bhubaneswar: Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar has significantly enhanced its operational efficiency by adding a parallel taxi track and a rapid exit taxi track.
This was informed by BPIA Airport Director Prasanna Pradhan on Saturday.
According to Pradhan, these infrastructure upgrades have doubled the runway’s capacity from 12 to 24 aircraft movements per hour, substantially improving the flow of arrivals and departures.
“Previously, aircraft had to backtrack along the runway after landing, leading to delays. The new taxi tracks enable planes to exit the runway swiftly without reducing speed, thereby cutting down runway occupancy time,” said Prasanna Pradhan while speaking to reporters.
The project, which cost approximately Rs 48 crore, was completed some time ago but only recently received operational clearance from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The changes will be reflected in the Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) of India, aligning with international airport standards to keep the public and airlines informed.
Meanwhile, during the recent Airfield Environment Management Committee (AEMC) meeting, officials flagged concerns about the height of coconut trees near the airport’s approach and takeoff paths. These trees pose potential safety hazards by obstructing critical flight zones. The matter has been referred to local authorities for prompt action.
“The airport conducts Obstacle Limitation Surfaces (OLS) surveys every three years to ensure safety compliance,” Pradhan added. “We continue to work closely with civic bodies to maintain secure operational conditions.”
