Goa Pushes for Aviation-Tourism Boost at Regional Civil Aviation Meet

 The Government of Goa made a strong case for aviation-driven tourism at the Western Region Civil Aviation Ministers’ Conference held in Mumbai, under the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Led by Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, the delegation presented proposals to better align Goa’s booming tourism sector with India’s expanding aviation network.

Goa called for a tourism-focused Open Skies policy to enable direct long-haul flights, especially to the UK and Europe. It also urged its inclusion in future Air Service Agreement negotiations, pushing for wide-body aircraft operations to support initiatives like Chalo India and Dekho Apna Desh.

Highlighting infrastructure needs, the state requested fast-tracking of a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility and a Flight Training Organisation (FTO) at Manohar International Airport, Mopa. It also proposed incentives for airlines to serve both regional and long-haul routes, improving access for tourists and locals alike.

In terms of connectivity, Goa advocated for the revival of the Goa–Dehradun route and sought new links to Kolhapur, Velankanni and Tirupati. It also presented plans to develop helicopter services, seaplanes, and drone-based tourism under the Drone Didi scheme, alongside a dedicated Aero-Sports and Drone Innovation Hub.

A key highlight was the proposal to create India’s first air–sea tourism hub, leveraging the proximity between Dabolim Airport and Vasco Cruise Terminal. Goa also showcased the success of its Aviation Skill Development Centre, which has trained over 1,100 youth, with high placement rates.

Addressing the gathering, Minister for Tourism, Rohan A. Khaunte remarked, “Goa stands ready not just with infrastructure, but with intent. Aviation and tourism must grow hand in hand, creating jobs, regional integration, and international visibility. We look forward to partnering with the Centre to build a future-ready, inclusive aviation economy.” He further expressed his sincere gratitude to Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji for his visionary leadership, which has played a pivotal role in accelerating the transformation of India’s civil aviation sector into one of the world’s fastest-growing. He highlighted the significant impact of flagship initiatives such as Dekho Apna Desh and Chalo India, which have revitalised both domestic and inbound tourism. The Minister further emphasised that Goa is well-positioned to reap the benefits of this integrated and holistic growth.

The state reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Centre, supporting the vision of inclusive growth and cooperative federalism in aviation.