Mopa Airport, Goa: Your Complete Guide

Mopa International Airport, alternatively referred to as Manohar International Airport or New Goa International Airport, is situated in Mopa, within the Pernem Taluka of North Goa District, India. It holds the IATA code GOX and ICAO code VOGA. This airport is classified as international, catering to domestic and international flight operations.

The new airport in Mopa brings a “world-class” airport experience to the state of Goa. Travellers can experience a modern touch to the country-style Goa. This blog entails all the details about Mopa Airport in Goa.

An Overview of Goa’s New Airport – Mopa International Airport 

Situated in Mopa, Pernem Taluka, Goa, Manohar International Airport serves North Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra. It is Goa’s second airport, developed by GGIAL. The primary objective of this new airport in Goa is to improve air connectivity. Mopa Airport was designed to ease the traffic at Goa’s current Dabolim Airport, a naval air base with restricted capacity due to joint military-civilian activities. The Mopa Airport project sought to provide Goa with a second international airport to host the many tourists visiting Goa every year.

The greenfield project’s concession tenure is 40 years, with a possible extension of another 20 years through a bid procedure. In the first phase, the airport will serve 4.4 million passengers, increasing to 13.1 million by the end of the fourth phase. The airport will operate on a hybrid basis with 30% cross-subsidisation, and the concession will provide 232 acres of land for commercial city-side development over 60 years.

Mopa Goa Airport – Latest News

September 2023 – Goa’s Logistics Sector Benefits from the Mopa Cargo Terminal

The Mopa Cargo Terminal holds extensive potential to revolutionise the transportation industry in Goa, positioning the state as a central hub for efficient and seamless cargo operations. This significant infrastructure project will breathe new life into Goa’s logistics sector, providing extensive economic benefits. Strategically located, this terminal will greatly enhance connectivity and accessibility for businesses, ensuring the smooth flow of goods within and beyond the state’s borders. With state-of-the-art facilities capable of handling a diverse range of cargo, from perishables to industrial equipment, this development aligns with the government’s vision to transform Goa into a prominent node in India’s logistics network, attracting investments and driving economic growth. 

As the Mopa Cargo Terminal is inaugurated, multiple sectors can anticipate improved supply chains and reduced travel times. Finally, the Mopa Cargo Terminal marks an important step in Goa’s road to becoming a major force in the logistics industry, with the potential to produce significant money and enhance the state’s economy.

Quick Facts about Mopa Airport Goa

Here are a few facts about Mopa International Airport, Goa –

Facilities at Mopa Airport Goa

Mopa Airport Goa features a single-passenger terminal structure that spans over 700,000 square feet and provides sufficient space for passenger logistics. The terminal can harbour over 1,000 passengers who arrive or depart during peak hours, ensuring a systematic and seamless flow.

The airport’s runway is designated as 09/27 and has a length of 3,750 meters and a width of 60 meters. It is designed to accommodate large aircraft such as the Boeing 777-200. Additionally, the track includes two fast start lanes connected to the taxiway, each  3,750 meters long and 25 meters wide.

The initial development phase also includes building a commercial aircraft parking space measuring 114,000 square metres. This apron has a remote apron, a service road, and technical aircraft maintenance kits. A loading bay capable of handling cargo planes was also built, assisted by ramp transporters for efficient unloading. 

In addition, an Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower has been built close to the cargo area to guarantee safe and well-organised operations. In the future, two hangars with a total space of 2,500 square metres will be constructed to meet general aviation requirements. 

Future Developments Near Mopa Airport in Goa

To improve accessibility to the recently constructed Mopa Airport, the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways is building a 5.15-km elevated corridor at Porvorim. This corridor, estimated at Rs 641.46 crore, will span from Sangolda Junction to the Majestic Hotel on NH-66.

Mopa International Airport’s Impact on Real Estate

The Mopa Airport will greatly enhance tourism and connectivity in the state, leading to increased demand for real estate in the nearby areas, specifically in the North Goa area and the nearby Konkan area, which is already experiencing a surge after the pandemic. This development will undoubtedly bring significant gains in real estate investments for Goa shortly. The demand for row homes, luxury cottages, and high-end apartments is expected to expand as NRIs and rich Indians are interested in buying property in the beach paradise. Furthermore, the new airport is expected to drive up real estate and rental prices in and around North Goa. With the airport now operational, a fresh increase in property prices is expected.

Investing Opportunities Near Mopa Airport in Goa 

The real estate sector is expected to witness growth and opportunities from airport expansion due to improved connectivity and growing economic activity. Here are some of the best places to consider investing near Mopa Airport:

Mapusa: Located in the north of Goa, Mapusa is a renowned residential and business hub, attracting global tourists with its famous Friday Market. It is a captivating option for real estate investments due to its proximity to the stunning beaches of North Goa and the Tivim industrial area.

Candolim: Candolim, situated on the northern border of Goa, presents a mesmerising backdrop near the Arabian Sea and Nerul River. The renowned Candolim beach, extending from Aguada Fort to Calangute, is among the lengthiest beaches in the area, surrounded by numerous bustling eateries and stores.

Calangute: Situated 29.3 kilometres from Mopa Airport lies Calangute, a renowned town in northern Goa. Known for its stunning beach and various water sports, Calangute attracts numerous investors and homebuyers due to its vibrant atmosphere and proximity to popular areas like Saligao, Nerul, Baga, and Candolim.

Directions to Mopa Airport from Goa

The airport lies in North Goa’s Pernem Taluka. It is conveniently reachable via NH-166S, a six-lane road connecting to NH-66 near Dhargalim village through a well-constructed trumpet interchange, with plans for a toll plaza to enhance accessibility.

You have the following modes of transportation from Goa to Mopa Airport:

By Road: 

You can reach the Mopa airport by car or bus.

• Private Vehicle/cab: To get to Mopa Airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car. The airport is accessible via NH-66 and NH-166S highways.
• Bus: The Kadambara Transport Corporation Limited (KTC) runs electric bus services from Mopa Airport to popular areas in Goa, such as Margao, Sinquerim, Calangute, Mapusa, and Panaji.

By Train: 

The closest railway station to Mopa Airport is Pernem station, located around 11.7 kilometres away. One can take a bus or a cab to move around the city.

Summary

The growth of Mopa Airport Goa is set to improve different sectors like tourism, trade, and manufacturing. It will attract more visitors and businesses, generating employment and fostering economic expansion. Additionally, improved air connectivity and infrastructure development will spur the real estate industry, attracting investments around the airport.

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