Goemakrponn desk
VASCO: In a significant development for Goa International Airport at Dabolim, sources indicate that Air Arabia may soon shift its operations to Mopa. If confirmed, this move would mark the sixth international airline to transfer its base from Dabolim to the newer Manohar International Airport at Mopa, joining the likes of Air India, Oman Air, Qatar Airways, Aeroflot, and TUI.
Concerns are mounting among Dabolim stakeholders, including taxi operators and local businesses, about the airport’s future viability. Despite assurances from Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte, and Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho that Dabolim Airport will continue its operations, the number of flights arriving at Dabolim has significantly declined since Mopa Airport began operations.
According to sources, Air Arabia’s shift to Mopa is expected to commence in November. Flight booking apps already show Air Arabia flights departing from Mopa post-November, with the new timing set at 2:15 PM, instead of the previous 4:00 AM departure from Dabolim. This transition has yet to be officially confirmed by Air Arabia, but multiple industry insiders and local sources corroborate the impending move.
A source at Goa International Airport neither confirmed nor denied the reports, citing the recent transfer of the Airport Director and emphasizing that such decisions ultimately rest with the airline operator.
Local taxi operators and travel agents have expressed their concerns about the impact on business. One taxi operator mentioned that nearly all international flights have moved to Mopa, leaving Dabolim with only a few remaining services from Air India and Gulf Air. A travel agent noted that Air Arabia flights are listed as operational from Dabolim until October 29th, after which they are scheduled from Mopa.
The Dabolim constituency is represented by cabinet minister Mauvin Godinho and MP Captain Viriato Fernandes, who are arch rivals but remain unified in their efforts to sustain Dabolim Airport for the benefit of South Goa residents. Both politicians have vocally opposed the shifting of flights and while Godinho had said that they had assurances from Union ministers to maintain operations at Dabolim, Captain Viriato Fernandes had said that he would raise the issue in the Parliament.
As the situation develops, stakeholders and residents await official announcements regarding Air Arabia’s operational base.
