Rajya Sabha MP Sadanand Shet Tanavade has called on the Centre to restore Air India’s direct Mopa–London Gatwick flight, which has been suspended since June 21, 2025.
Raising the matter during Zero Hour, Tanavade stressed the urgent need to resume the non-stop service (AI 145/146) between Manohar International Airport, Mopa (GOX), and London Gatwick Airport (LGW). Launched on July 21, 2023, the thrice-weekly route was Goa’s first regular international service, providing a crucial travel link for Goans in the United Kingdom by eliminating lengthy and costly layovers.
The MP said the suspension followed operational adjustments in the wake of the Air India Flight 171 incident. While acknowledging the importance of safety, he warned that the prolonged grounding, now more than a month old, had caused ‘severe inconvenience’ to Goans and other travellers, forcing them onto expensive, time-consuming multi-stop itineraries.
Tanavade underlined that Goa’s connection with the UK extends beyond tourism, citing strong cultural, economic and diaspora ties. “The direct flight is more than just a convenience; it’s a lifeline that strengthens family bonds, promotes economic exchange, and supports both inbound and outbound tourism,” he said.
He urged the Union government to take ‘immediate steps’ to reinstate the Mopa-London Gatwick service for the benefit of Goans and tourists alike.