Goa Urges Restoration of Crucial Regional Air Routes to Enhance Connectivity
Goa has presented a comprehensive aviation-tourism roadmap, advocating for enhanced air connectivity and strategic infrastructure development to bolster its position as a premier global destination. This ambitious plan, unveiled at a recent conference, aims to deepen collaboration between central and state authorities, fostering a future-ready, inclusive, and tourism-led aviation economy. The initiative underscores Goa’s commitment to sustainable growth, ensuring efficient travel while promoting eco-friendly practices and equitable access for all.
The state’s submissions included a crucial call for a tourism-oriented Open Skies policy. This policy is designed to facilitate direct, long-haul international flights, particularly to key markets in the United Kingdom and Europe, thereby reducing carbon emissions associated with connecting flights. Goa also advocated for its inclusion in future bilateral Air Service Agreements, which would further expand its global reach. Additionally, the state pushed for the expedited establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility and a Flight Training Organisation (FTO) at Manohar International Airport in Mopa, aiming to position Goa as a regional skilling hub for the aviation sector.
To bolster regional route connectivity, Goa proposed the revival of the Goa–Dehradun flight and the introduction of new links to significant regional destinations such as Velankanni, Tirupati, and Kolhapur. These connections are vital for promoting equitable access to travel and tourism opportunities across diverse regions. Furthermore, the state unveiled plans for the development of alternative transport modes, including seaplane services, helicopter routes, and drone innovation under a national initiative. Plans for a dedicated Drone and Aero-Sports Hub, alongside India’s first integrated air–sea tourism corridor connecting Dabolim Airport with the Vasco Cruise Terminal, signal a forward-thinking approach to diversified and sustainable mobility solutions.
Highlighting its commitment to local capacity building, Goa reported significant success with its Aviation Skill Development Centre. In just two years, the centre has trained over 1,100 young individuals, achieving a near-total placement rate. This achievement exemplifies employment-led, scalable capacity building within the aviation sector, directly contributing to economic empowerment and fostering a gender-neutral workforce. Such initiatives are crucial for ensuring that the benefits of tourism and aviation growth are widely distributed, contributing to more equitable urban and rural landscapes.
The comprehensive roadmap reaffirms Goa’s unwavering support for the national vision of equitable aviation growth through cooperative federalism. By strategically investing in infrastructure, promoting diverse connectivity options, and fostering skill development, Goa is not only enhancing its appeal as a global tourism destination but also laying the groundwork for a more resilient and sustainable future. This integrated approach ensures that the state’s growth aligns with the principles of zero net carbon and eco-friendly urbanisation, creating a thriving environment for both its residents and visitors.
