Team Herald
VASCO: South Goa MP Capt Viriato Fernandes on Tuesday met the Director of Airport Authority of India (AAI) and assured him that that he will do everything to restore Dabolim international airport to its former glory even as he alleged a conspiracy to divert flights from Dabolim Airport to the Mopa Airport, to benefit the private operator at the expense of the State-run facility.
Capt Fernandes said that he had promised the Director of Goa Airport that he would give his 200 per cent to ensure that the Dabolim Airport remains operational and regains its status as a premier airport in the State. “There is a clear conspiracy to shift business and flights from Dabolim to Mopa airport. The government must avoid giving step-motherly treatment to Dabolim Airport just to benefit a private player operating newly built Mopa Airport,” he said.
He disclosed that certain individuals within the aviation sector in Delhi had informed him about pressure being applied on airlines to shift operations from Dabolim to Mopa airport. He said that he raised the issue of the Dabolim Airport’s status in the Lok Sabha on three separate occasions, as his commitment to preserve its significance in Goa’s infrastructure and economy.
The User Development Fee (UDF) at Dabolim Airport is lower than that at the Mopa Airport so that the former can compete with the private airport, Capt Fernandes said, adding that he had already discussed this matter with senior AAI officials in Delhi.
The South Goa MP pointed out that the entire economy of the State including hotel businesses, taxi operators, shack owners, motorcycle pilots, and small business establishments, revolves around Dabolim Airport and that it supports more than four lakh jobs directly and indirectly.
“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,” Capt Fernandes said.