Goa CM to Seek Centre’s Nod for Resuming London Flights Halted After Ahmedabad Crash

Quick Summary

• Goa Chief Minister pramod Sawant stated he would consult the Civil Aviation Ministry on resuming Air India flights between Gatwick (London) and Goa’s Manohar International Airport.
• The service was halted after the June 12 Ahmedabad plane crash.
• BJP MLA Michael Lobo highlighted the importance of the flight, which directly connected Goans to London, urging the CM to address this issue wiht Air India and relevant authorities.
• Mr. Lobo also raised concerns about feasibility issues for operating two airports in Goa: Dabolim Airport (south) and Manohar International Airport at Mopa (north).
• Mr. Sawant responded that flight arrivals have doubled post-Manohar International Airport’s commissioning, with both airports collectively supporting increased connectivity.
• He noted approximately ₹65.88 crore revenue generated by Manohar International Airport as operations began in january 2023 (domestic) and July 2023 (international).

Indian Opinion Analysis

The discussion on reviving Gatwick-Goa flights underscores its importance for international connectivity, especially for Goans living abroad in regions like London who rely heavily on this direct connection. While public concern around aviation safety may still linger following June’s Ahmedabad crash, focusing on consultation with authorities indicates steps toward re-establishing this vital link responsibly.

Further commentary around two airports reveals differing expectations about operational feasibility versus contributions to infrastructure development-especially given Manohar International’s sizeable revenue generation thus far and higher flight capacity compared to Dabolim’s past averages.

maintaining consistent growth while balancing public transportation needs could be pivotal as Goa positions itself as a more globally connected hub moving forward.

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