Bhubaneswar, July 21 (UDN): International travel from Odisha is expected to become more seamless as Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) gears up to implement a hub-and-spoke travel model, allowing passengers to complete key travel formalities before leaving Bhubaneswar.
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The initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, has identified Bhubaneswar as one of five regional “spoke” airports, with Delhi designated as the primary international hub in the first phase.
One-Time Check-In, Hassle-Free Transfers
Under the new system, passengers departing from Bhubaneswar on international journeys via Delhi will be able to complete check-in, baggage drop, immigration and customs procedures at BPIA itself. They will no longer need to repeat these formalities after reaching the national capital.
Travellers will receive two boarding passes at Bhubaneswar—one for the domestic flight to Delhi and another for their onward international flight. Checked baggage will be tagged directly to the final destination and automatically transferred between flights, eliminating the need for passengers to collect and recheck their luggage during transit.
Airport officials believe the move will significantly reduce waiting time and ease congestion at busy international terminals, making overseas travel more convenient for passengers from Odisha.
Air India Flight to Lead Rollout
The facility is expected to be introduced initially on a Delhi-bound Air India service. Based on its performance, the model may later be expanded to include additional airlines and other major metro hubs handling international operations.
Timely Move Amid Reduced International Connectivity
The development comes at a time when Bhubaneswar’s international connectivity has witnessed a sharp decline. The airport currently operates only one direct international flight to Bangkok, while services to destinations such as Dubai, Singapore and Abu Dhabi remain suspended.
Officials believe the hub-and-spoke model could help offset the reduction in direct overseas flights by providing smoother access to global destinations through Delhi. The initiative is also expected to enhance passenger traffic at BPIA, particularly after the recent suspension of flights on several domestic routes.
The new travel model is seen as a significant step towards improving connectivity for international travellers from Odisha while strengthening Bhubaneswar’s role as a key regional aviation gateway.