Panjim: On the second day of the Goa monsoon session, Chief
Minister Pramod Sawant provided reassurance that both Dabolim and Mopa airports
in Goa will continue their operations simultaneously. He addressed concerns
about the impact of Dabolim Airport's limits on South Goa and confirmed that no
existing flights from Dabolim will be relocated to Mopa Airport in the future.
However, any newly scheduled flights will be directed to Mopa Airport.
Speaking at the session, Sawant also unveiled plans to transform
Mopa Airport into an international airport, expanding its services beyond
domestic flights.
Sawant has assured that this will maintain a smooth and uninterrupted functioning between Goa's two airports. Sawant also unveiled plans to elevate Mopa Airport to international status, allowing it to serve as an international gateway alongside its domestic operations.
Elected Members of the house highlighted that South Goa tourism has been severely impacted after the inauguration of the Mopa International Airport and that there has been a 50% reduction in airline operations. Moreover, they raised concerns about the diversion of flights to the new airport worsening the situation and demanded that this cease immediately.