With the recently built International Mopa Airport getting ready to handle more passengers and relieve traffic, Goa’s tourism sector stands to gain a great deal. Prime Minister Modi laid the foundation stone for this state-of-the-art facility in November 2016, and on December 11, 2022, he officially opened the airport’s first phase. After that, the airport started to operate commercially in January 2023, inviting visitors from around the world.
Manohar International Airport is a recently built new airport project at Mopa in Pernem taluka, North Goa, and is named in honor of the late Manohar Parrikar, the former state chief minister and national defense minister.
This new airport’s main goal is to improve air connection so that civilian traffic can enter the state more easily. Through enhanced accessibility and effective transit choices, Manohar International Airport hopes to increase connection and support the general growth of Goa’s tourism, trade, and business sectors.
The goal of this new airport is to improve air connectivity while streamlining the flow of civilian traffic into the state. Manohar International Airport aims to provide more accessible and efficient transportation options in order to foster connectivity and support the general expansion of Goa’s commerce, economic, and tourism industries.
About Goa’s Mopa Airport
Goa now has two international airports: Dabolim in the south and Mopa in the north, following the opening of Mopa Airport. The airport is anticipated to alleviate some of the strain on the current Dabolim Airport (GOI), which operates under restrictions and collaborates with the Indian Navy, causing airside congestion during peak hours.
The airport is anticipated to handle about 4.4 million tourists a year in its initial phase (MPPA). The second phase will then raise the capacity to handle 5.8 million people, while the third phase will target 9.4 million passengers. The terminal, taxiways, aviation facilities, and cargo and commercial aprons will all continue to expand during these phases.
When the fourth and last phase is finished by 2045, Mopa Airport will be able to handle 13.1 million people annually, which is its maximum capacity. The implementation of a progressive and phased strategy guarantees that the airport’s infrastructure keeps pace with the increasing demands of air travel, thereby offering customers improved services and convenience over time.
Facilities on the Airside at Mopa Airport
The 700,000 square foot passenger terminal building at Goa Mopa Airport provides ample capacity for passenger operations. The terminal can handle more than 1,000 people coming in and going out each hour during peak hours, ensuring a smooth and effective flow.
The runway at the airport is known as 09/27 and is 3,750 meters long by 60 meters wide. It is designed to accommodate large aircraft, such the Boeing 777-200. Two quick departure lanes, each spanning 3,750 meters in length and 25 meters in width, are also connected to taxiways on the runway.
Building a commercial aircraft parking apron spanning 114,000 square meters is another aspect of the first phase of construction. This apron offers remote aircraft stands, servicing lanes, and technical kits for aircraft repair. Furthermore, a freighter plane-accommodating cargo apron has been built, backed by ramp trucks for efficient cargo discharge.
How to Get From Goa To Mopa Airport
The airport is easily accessible via NH-166S, a six-lane road that links to NH-66 (formerly NH-17) close to Dhargalim hamlet via a thoughtfully constructed trumpet interchange. The airport is situated in the Pernem taluka of North Goa. To increase connectivity, a six-lane toll plaza will also be constructed.
You can choose one of the following modes of transportation to get from Goa to Mopa Airport:
By Road: You can use a bus or a car to go to the Mopa airport.
Private Self Drive Car/Taxi: You can pick a reliable car rental company like Fast Rental Goa to hire a car rental at mopa airport. The routes NH-66 and NH-166S lead to the airport. Opting a car rental near mopa airport is very cheap option as you can rent a mini hackback in just INR 1,000 per day or a SUV car in just INR 1,500 per day only.
Bus: The Kadambara Transport Corporation Limited (KTC) runs regular electric bus services between Mopa Airport and well-known Goan locations like Margao, Panaji, Sinquerim, Calangute, and Mapusa.
By Train: Pernem Railway Station, which is around 11.7 kilometers distant, is the closest train station to Mopa Airport. From the train station, it’s simple to catch a bus or hire a cab to get to the airport.
In conclusion
Mopa Airport Goa’s expansion is expected to help a number of businesses, including trade, manufacturing, tourism, and hospitality. It is anticipated to bring in more tourists and businesses, boosting employment and the local economy. Additionally, it is anticipated that improved air connections and general infrastructure development will support the real estate sector, creating new opportunities for construction and investment around the airport. Hire your self drive car at mopa airport and enjoy your dream vacation in Goa with super comfort.