Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has finalized a significant airline incentive scheme aimed at enhancing air connectivity to the coastal state. The scheme allocates Rs 2 crore annually to reward carriers that introduce new routes and additional flights to Goa.
Incentive Details and Assembly Announcement
During a private member's resolution in the assembly on Friday, CM Sawant outlined the specifics of the incentive plan. He stated that each new flight to Goa will receive an incentive of Rs 2 lakh. For airlines bringing in five flights, the reward increases to Rs 10 lakh.
The resolution was moved by Siolim MLA Delilah Lobo, focusing on improving both domestic and international air links to Goa. Following the Chief Minister's detailed assurance, Lobo withdrew her resolution.
Additional Support Measures for Airlines
Sawant highlighted further support being provided to airlines. He mentioned that carriers are now charged a reduced rate of 15% for fuel, down from the previous 18%. The Goa government will bear the VAT cost associated with this reduction.
"This airline incentive is a big incentive for a small state like Goa," Sawant emphasized. "The Goa government is serious about this issue. To enhance tourism, Goa definitely needs both the airports."
Current Air Traffic and Future Plans
Providing recent data, the Chief Minister noted that between March 2024 and December 2024, Goa welcomed a total of 1,970 flights. During this period, 46,174 passengers arrived in the state, with 46,525 departures recorded across both airports.
Sawant reiterated a firm commitment to keeping Dabolim airport operational, dismissing any speculation about its closure. He announced that new domestic and international routes have already commenced, connecting Goa to destinations like Uzbekistan, Poland, Russia, and the United Kingdom.
Regarding Fly91, an airline operating from Goa, Sawant reported it currently runs 72 flights from Mopa airport. Under the central government's UDAN scheme, three additional routes are set to launch soon.
Opposition Concerns and Criticism
Leader of the opposition, Yuri Alemao, expressed strong opposition to the resolution. Alemao argued that the assembly lacks the authority to decide on airline connectivity matters, as airlines make such choices based on commercial considerations.
Alemao accused the government of systematically weakening Dabolim airport while simultaneously discussing enhanced connectivity in the assembly. He raised pointed questions about structures built in the airport's funnel zone, suggesting they might have been intentionally constructed to render the airport unsafe and ultimately unviable.
Broader Tourism and Infrastructure Context
Looking beyond aviation, Sawant connected the incentive scheme to Goa's broader tourism strategy. He mentioned the upcoming operationalization of Goa's cruise terminal at Mormugao, expected later this year. The Chief Minister predicted this development would naturally lead to increased ticket bookings from Dabolim airport.
The comprehensive approach underscores Goa's determination to strengthen its position as a premier tourist destination through improved transportation links and supportive policies for airlines.
