Goemkarponn desk
VASCO: In a bold declaration, South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes on Tuesday evening assured the Airport Authority of India (AAI) that he will do everything in his power to restore Dabolim Airport to its former glory.
Speaking to reporters, Fernandes also alleged that there is a conspiracy to divert flights from Dabolim Airport to the newly established Mopa Airport, benefiting a private operator at the expense of the state-run facility.
“This was my first meeting with the Director of the Airport Authority of India, and the focus was squarely on Dabolim Airport. I promised them that I would give my 200 per cent to ensure that Dabolim remains operational and regains its status as a premier airport. There is a clear conspiracy to shift business and flights from Dabolim to Mopa. The government must avoid giving step-motherly treatment to Dabolim Airport just to benefit a private player operating Mopa Airport,” Fernandes asserted.
Fernandes further claimed that certain individuals within the aviation sector in Delhi have informed him about pressure being applied on airlines to shift operations from Dabolim to Mopa.
“I have raised the issue of Dabolim Airport’s status in the Parliament on three separate occasions, as my commitment to preserving its significance in Goa’s infrastructure and economy. Air Arabia, which previously operated from Dabolim has now shifted to Mopa without any apparent reason, despite maintaining the same arrival and departure times. The User Development Fee (UDF) at Dabolim Airport is lower than that at Mopa and I discussed this with senior AAI officials in Delhi as well,” said Fernandes.
The MP emphasized the economic importance of Dabolim Airport, noting that it supports over four lakh jobs directly and indirectly.
“The entire economy of Goa, including hotel businesses in South and North Goa, taxi operators, shack owners, motorcycle pilots, and small business establishments, revolves around Dabolim Airport. Dabolim is a unique location globally, with an airport, railways, road transportation, and a seaport all in close proximity. We will involve all stakeholders, including the tourism industry, taxi operators, motorcycle pilots, and hoteliers, and take them into confidence to make Dabolim Airport the best in the country,” Fernandes pledged.
