Goa, known for its picturesque beaches, delicious seafood, and Portuguese-inspired architecture, is a popular tourist destination in India. To accommodate the increasing number of travelers visiting the state, the government of Goa has recently constructed a new airport called the Manohar International Airport at Mopa, Goa. In this article, we will discuss the features, facilities, and advantages of the Manohar International Airport.
The Manohar International Airport, also known as Mopa Airport, is a greenfield airport located in the northern part of Goa. The airport is situated approximately 50 km away from the state capital Panaji and 35 km away from the popular tourist destination, Calangute Beach. The airport was inaugurated on 11th December 2022 by the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi.
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Location and Accessibility
The Mopa airport is located in the Pernem taluka of North Goa district. The airport is situated near the border of Goa and Maharashtra, making it easily accessible for people from both states. The airport is well-connected to major cities in India through national highways and railways. The airport is also connected to major towns in Goa through a network of roads.
Facilities at Manohar International Airport
Terminal Building
The terminal building at the Manohar International Airport is spread over an area of 18,000 square meters. The terminal has three levels, with the arrival and departure areas located on the ground floor. The airport has eight aerobridges that connect the terminal to the aircraft.
Mopa Airport Shops and Restaurants
The airport has several shops and restaurants that cater to the needs of passengers. There are both international and domestic brands, including food outlets, cafes, and souvenir shops. The airport also has a duty-free shopping area, where passengers can purchase items such as liquor, tobacco, and perfumes at discounted rates.
Lounges
The airport has two lounges, which are located on the first floor of the terminal building. The Mopa lounge are operated by the airport authority and are accessible to passengers who hold lounge access cards or who are flying business or first class.
Transportation Options
Taxis
Taxis are readily available at the Manohar International Airport, and passengers can easily book a taxi from the designated taxi counter located at the arrival area. The fares are regulated by the government, and passengers can be assured of a safe and comfortable ride.
Buses
The Goa Transport Corporation (GTC) operates regular bus services from the Manohar International Airport to various destinations in Goa. The buses are air-conditioned and equipped with comfortable seating arrangements.
Car Rentals
Several car rental companies have set up their counters at the Manohar International Airport. Passengers can rent a car and explore Goa at their own pace. However, it’s important to note that driving in Goa can be challenging, especially for those who are not used to Indian traffic.
Advantages of Mopa Airport
The Mopa airport has several advantages over the existing Dabolim airport in Goa. Firstly, the Mopa airport is located in a less populated area, which means there is more space for expansion in the future. The airport has been designed to handle larger aircraft, which means that it can accommodate more international flights. The Mopa airport is also expected to reduce the air traffic congestion at the Dabolim airport, which will help to improve the overall efficiency of the air traffic in the state.
The Mopa airport is also expected to boost the tourism industry in Goa. The airport is expected to attract more international tourists, which will help to increase the revenue generated by the tourism industry. The airport is also expected to create employment opportunities for the local people.
The Manohar International Airport at Mopa, Goa, is a state-of-the-art airport with modern infrastructure and facilities. The airport is expected to improve the efficiency of air traffic in the state and boost the tourism industry. The airport has been designed to be eco-friendly, which is a step towards sustainable development. With the inauguration of the Mopa airport, Goa is set to become a hub for international tourism in India.
Beaches Near to Mopa Airport Goa
If you desire to discover the beaches in close proximity to Mopa Airport in Goa, there are several options available, including Mandrem Beach, Arambol Beach, Querim Beach, Morjim Beach, Chapora Beach, Sandy Beach, Kalacha Beach, and Ashvem Beach.
The construction of the airport began in 2018.
The runway at the airport measures 3.7 km in length.
The airport has eight aerobridges.
Yes, taxis are readily available at the airport.
The airport authority is planning to expand the terminal building, develop an aviation hub, and build a cargo complex in the future.
Yes, unlike other Airports Mopa Airport also do have a lounge.