Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: The Goa government is ramping up efforts to position the state as a premier international aviation and tourism hub through a dual-airport system, leveraging both Manohar International Airport (Mopa) and Dabolim Airport. The strategy prioritizes direct international connectivity, particularly from Europe and the Middle East, to attract more global travelers.
Over the last five years, Manohar International Airport has established links with key international destinations, including London (Gatwick), Manchester, Warsaw, Moscow, Sharjah, Muscat, and Doha, among others. Some routes are temporarily suspended, but the state plans to revive and expand them under a new incentive scheme.
The Department of Tourism has introduced a Rs 2 crore incentive fund to attract airlines and strengthen direct flight connectivity. Civil Aviation Minister Pramod Sawant said, “Our goal is to make Goa a global aviation and tourism hub. By maximizing the operational capacity of Mopa Airport and supporting Dabolim, we are creating a time-bound, incentive-driven roadmap to boost direct international connectivity and open new opportunities for travelers and airlines alike.”
This dual-airport strategy is part of Goa’s broader vision to enhance its tourism footprint, improve passenger convenience, and solidify its reputation as a key destination for international travelers, while also stimulating economic growth through aviation-linked opportunities.
