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Manohar International Airport (MOPA), Goa – A Game Changer for Connectivity, Tourism, and Real Estate

Manohar International Airport, commonly known as MOPA Airport, is Goa’s second international airport, built to enhance connectivity, decongest Dabolim Airport, and boost tourism. Named after Manohar Parrikar, the late Chief Minister of Goa, the airport is strategically located in Mopa, Pernem taluka, North Goa. It was inaugurated on December 11, 2022, by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and became operational on January 5, 2023.

This world-class airport has been developed with cutting-edge technology, eco-friendly infrastructure, and modern facilities, positioning itself as a key aviation hub for Western India.

Key Features of MOPA Airport

1. Increased Passenger Handling Capacity

  • Phase 1 (Operational since January 2023):

    • Can handle 4.4 million passengers annually.

    • Features a 3,750-meter runway capable of handling large aircraft, including Boeing 777 and Airbus A380.

  • Future Phases (by 2045):

    • Will expand to accommodate over 13 million passengers per year.

    • Additional terminals and runway extensions will further enhance capacity.

This expansion is aimed at making Goa an international aviation gateway while reducing congestion at Dabolim Airport, which operates within the constraints of an active naval base.

2. Advanced Technology Integration

MOPA Airport is one of the most technologically advanced airports in India, with:

  • 5G-compatible IT infrastructure ensuring high-speed internet access.

  • Self-baggage drop counters for faster check-ins.

  • Electronic immigration gates reducing long queues for international travelers.

  • Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS) for faster security checks.

  • CAT-III Instrument Landing System (ILS) enabling aircraft to land even in low-visibility conditions.

  • Parallel taxiways and rapid exit taxiways to minimize delays.

These features significantly enhance the passenger experience and bring Goa on par with global aviation standards.

3. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Infrastructure

MOPA Airport is built with a strong focus on environmental sustainability:

  • Solar Power Plant: The airport is partially powered by renewable energy.

  • LED Runway Lighting: Reduces energy consumption.

  • Rainwater Harvesting System: Helps conserve water.

  • Advanced Sewage Treatment Plant (STP): Treats and recycles wastewater for non-potable uses.

  • Noise and Carbon Emission Control: Aircraft movements are monitored to reduce environmental impact.

This makes Manohar International Airport one of India’s most environmentally responsible airports.

4. Boost to Goa’s Tourism Industry

  • Goa is one of India’s top tourist destinations, attracting millions of domestic and international travelers each year.

  • MOPA Airport enables better international flight connectivity, making it easier for tourists from Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia to visit.

  • It helps decongest Dabolim Airport, which was operating beyond capacity due to limited space.

  • The airport’s location in North Goa allows quicker access to popular tourist spots like Morjim, Ashwem, and Arambol.

With a sharp increase in visitor numbers expected, Goa’s hospitality and tourism industry is set for unprecedented growth.

5. Economic Growth and Real Estate Boom

  • The opening of MOPA Airport has accelerated real estate development in North Goa.

  • Demand for hotels, luxury villas, and commercial spaces has surged.

  • Improved air connectivity has encouraged investment from global and domestic businesses in Goa’s tourism, hospitality, and IT sectors.

  • With enhanced logistics, Goa is also seeing growth in cargo and export industries.

This airport is expected to position Goa as a commercial hub, beyond just a tourist destination.\



6. Connectivity and Transportation

  • Multi-Modal Transport Integration:

    • The airport is well-connected via National Highway 66.

    • Bus and taxi services provide easy access to major cities like Panaji (35 km) and Vasco da Gama (50 km).

    • Future plans include railway and metro connectivity, ensuring seamless travel.

  • Domestic & International Connectivity:

    • Leading airlines such as IndiGo, Go First, Vistara, and Air India operate flights from MOPA.

    • International destinations in the pipeline include the Middle East, UK, Russia, and Southeast Asia.

MOPA Airport is set to become a major aviation hub for South Asia, connecting Goa directly to international markets.

7. Promotion of Goan Art, Culture, and Handicrafts

  • The airport is designed to showcase Goan heritage and culture through:

    • Goan art galleries and murals inside the terminal.

    • Curated souvenir shops featuring locally crafted items.

    • Handicraft markets promoting the work of Goan artisans.

  • Visitors can experience Goa’s rich traditions and heritage the moment they arrive.

This initiative not only enhances the airport’s aesthetic appeal but also boosts the local economy by supporting artisans and small businesses.

8. Major Real Estate Investment Near MOPA Airport

Delhi-NCR-based real estate developer Yugen Infra has announced a massive Rs 2,000 crore investment in luxury real estate projects near MOPA Airport. This includes:

  • Golf City: A 500-acre golf township featuring:

    • Over 50 3BHK luxury villas with private pools.

    • A nine-hole golf course.

    • A 150-key 5-star resort managed by Cygnett Hotels & Resorts.

    • Villa plots starting at Rs 80 lakh, with villas priced from Rs 3.31 crore onwards.

  • La Mandre: An ultra-luxury villa project near Mandrem Beach, featuring:

    • 13 super-luxury villas on an 8,000 square meter land parcel.

    • Plot sizes ranging from 215 to 590 square meters.

    • Villas priced between Rs 5.40 crore and Rs 15 crore.

According to Amit Mamgain, Director of Yugen Infra, the total topline revenue expected is Rs 3,000 crore, making this one of the biggest real estate projects in Goa.



Conclusion: The Future of MOPA Airport

Manohar International Airport is more than just an aviation facility; it is a strategic investment in Goa’s future. With its world-class infrastructure, sustainable initiatives, and economic impact, MOPA Airport is set to:

  • Enhance tourism and business opportunities.

  • Strengthen international trade and logistics.

  • Support local culture and real estate growth.

  • Provide a seamless, world-class travel experience.

As Goa continues to evolve beyond a holiday destination, MOPA Airport and the upcoming real estate projects will play a pivotal role in its transformation into a global business and tourism hub.

This airport is not just reshaping Goa’s skyline—it is redefining its future.



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