The Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar has formally sought approval from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to decommission its decades-old Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower.

The old 23.46-metre structure has remained vacant since operations shifted in early 2023 to the new 11-storey, 44.2-metre tower, equipped with advanced automation systems under the Make in India initiative. Initially used as a backup, all navigation and communication equipment has now been fully relocated. DGCA inspectors will examine the site before approving decommissioning, while authorities are considering repurposing the anti-hijacking building as a backup control centre.

The modern facility has enhanced efficiency in handling rising air traffic, particularly during night and international operations, and acts as a diversion point in adverse weather. However, concerns were raised in late 2024 over the lack of a fire safety certificate for the new tower, after officials denied clearance citing National Building Code violations, including the absence of dual escape routes. Authorities have not confirmed whether certification has since been secured.

Meanwhile, expansion plans at BPIA are moving ahead with a new integrated Terminal 3 (T3) finalised at an estimated cost of Rs 10 billion. The 65,000-square-metre terminal will replace earlier split-terminal proposals and is designed to handle up to 8.6 million passengers annually. The project also includes six new aerobridges and expanded apron space to accommodate increasing traffic while improving passenger experience.