Team Goemkarponn
DABOLIM: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes has secured an assurance from the Union Government that civilian flight operations at Dabolim Airport will continue without interruption, bringing clarity over the airport’s future following the opening of Manohar International Airport at Mopa.
In a statement issued on Friday, the MP said Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in a communication sent earlier this month, confirmed that Dabolim Airport would continue to handle civilian flights, putting to rest speculation about its possible closure.
Captain Viriato had written to the Defence Minister seeking an official clarification amid recurring concerns over the airport’s long-term future. He stressed that Dabolim Airport remains crucial to Goa’s economy, tourism sector and the livelihoods of thousands of people directly and indirectly dependent on its operations.
The MP also raised the matter with senior Defence officials as a member of the Parliamentary Standing Committee, pointing out that several defence airports in India’s border states successfully operate both military and civilian flights simultaneously.
Welcoming the Centre’s assurance, Captain Viriato said the confirmation provides much-needed confidence to passengers, airport employees, businesses and stakeholders in the tourism industry, particularly in South Goa.
He said Dabolim Airport continues to be a vital infrastructure asset for the state and reiterated that he would remain engaged with the concerned authorities to safeguard Goa’s interests in matters related to aviation infrastructure.
The clarification from the Union Government is expected to ease public concerns and reaffirm Dabolim Airport’s continued role alongside Mopa in Goa’s dual-airport aviation network.
