VASCO
Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho on Friday said that Dabolim airport operations would not be affected even if the new Mopa Airport was inaugurated on August 15.
Speaking to reporters while inaugurating The Go Cafe at Chicalim, Godinho said that both the airports in Goa would function smoothly as there was a huge increase in air traffic across the country.
"There is a clear agreement signed between all stakeholders that even after Mopa airport begins operating, Dabolim airport will continue, and I don't see any reason why Dabolim will not function as a normal airport. In a study carried out by various agencies, the air traffic will increase in a big way and we will have more flights and more space for aircraft to be parked and other allied services. There is enough traffic for the Airport Authority Of India-run Dabolim and privately-run Mopa airport and Mopa Airport which will also be a cargo hub in a big way and help the logistics for the building of industries in a big way, and Goa can also become a trading hub," the minister said
"Ultimately, competition is good because there will be competition between a private player and a government-run airport for airport charges and other allied services which will lead to a reduction in prices and ultimately benefit the flyer. We have a broad highway connecting Mopa and distances will never be a problem while people have a choice between two airports," said Godinho.
