05 Jan 2024  |   03:49am IST

Manohar International Airport (MIA) Celebrates Remarkable One-Year Milestone of Unprecedented Growth

Manohar International Airport (MIA) Celebrates Remarkable One-Year Milestone of Unprecedented Growth

Manohar International Airport (MIA), managed by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd., has marked a milestone in Goa's aviation landscape. Since its inauguration on January 5, 2023, MIA has seen remarkable developments, elevating it to a pivotal player in Goa's air traffic.

With an impressive increase in passenger traffic and expanded routes both domestically and internationally, MIA now connects to 25 domestic and 4 international destinations. Airlines like Indigo, Akasa Air, Vistara, Spicejet, Air India, Oman Air, Indigo, and Tui are servicing the airport, handling over 3 million passengers and surpassing traditional seasonal decline patterns.

Bucking historical trends, MIA sustained consistent air traffic throughout the year, doubling the number of domestic destinations connected to Goa to 29. The ongoing Phase 3 Stage 1 expansion, targeting approximately 8 million passengers annually, is set for completion before the Winter schedule of 2024.

Recognizing its excellence, the Airport Authority of India ranked MIA among the top 15 airports in India in November 2023.

MIA's infrastructure is a marvel, boasting a Code E/F compliant runway, extensive taxiways, and a state-of-the-art passenger terminal building. Plans for a multi-modal infrastructure, including a 6-lane expressway and railway access, enhance connectivity.

Focusing on passenger experience, MIA offers a vibrant Goan ambience, engaging all senses with curated fragrances, Goan-themed art, special cuisine outlets, and live music, earning it a Best Passenger Experience Design award by CII and a remarkable 4.9 satisfaction rating.

The airport's sustainable initiatives have earned it several awards, such as "Best Sustainable Greenfield Airport," "Construction Safety," and "Best Environmental Practices," including an IGBC Platinum Rating for the Passenger Terminal. Notably, it received recognition at international summits in London and India.

Since initiating cargo services in January 2023, MIA has become a vital hub for economic growth in Goa. Handling diverse cargo, from pharmaceuticals to vegetables, MIA's temperature-controlled cargo terminal has processed around 750 metric tons in the first 11 months of operation.

R.V. Sheshan, CEO-GGIAL, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the past year, emphasizing a commitment to further operational improvements. “We at GMR Goa International Airport take pride in our last year’s accomplishments /achievements. We are committed to continuous improvements in our operations going forward. I wish to thank and congratulate every team member of our airports including GOI / GOG agencies & business associates for their collaborative efforts in these accomplishments,” he said

IDhar UDHAR

Idhar Udhar