Dabolim airport will continue ops for civil, Navy use, says CM

CM Dismisses Closure Rumors with Clear Statement

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday categorically stated that the Goa International Airport at Dabolim will not be shut down for civilian operations.[1][3] The announcement came as a direct response to concerns raised by opposition parties and a Member of Parliament who had expressed apprehension that civilian operations would be halted and the facility would be handed over exclusively to the Indian Navy.[1] Sawant's firm statement represents the government's definitive position on the matter, quashing weeks of speculation that have created uncertainty among stakeholders in South Goa's aviation and tourism sectors.[2]

The airport, which is located inside the Indian Navy's INS Hansa air base, has functioned as a dual-use facility since its inception, serving both civilian air traffic and naval operations simultaneously.[1][3] This operational arrangement has proven successful and continues to be the model going forward. The Chief Minister emphasized that there is no proposal, plan, or intention on the part of the state government to shut down civilian operations at Dabolim, as the airport continues to play a vital role in ensuring connectivity, supporting tourism, facilitating trade, and sustaining livelihoods, particularly in South Goa.[3]

Substantial Government Investment Underscores Commitment

A significant factor reinforcing the government's commitment to keeping Dabolim operational is the substantial financial investment made by the Union government in recent years. The Centre has invested approximately Rs 450 crore on constructing a flyover at Dabolim Airport, in addition to Rs 400 crore spent on infrastructure upgradation over the past four to five years.[1][3] Such considerable expenditure would not have been undertaken if the intention was to hand over the airport to the Navy exclusively, the Chief Minister argued.[3] These investments demonstrate the central government's intention to enhance the airport's capacity and functionality for civilian air traffic operations.[1]

The Chief Minister further noted that before the commissioning of Manohar International Airport (also known as Mopa Airport) in North Goa, a Cabinet decision had been taken ensuring that Goa would operate with dual airports.[5] This strategic decision reflects a clear governmental understanding of the need for multiple aviation hubs to serve the state's diverse regions and support robust economic activity. The commitment extends beyond mere statements, with formal decisions at both state and union cabinet levels affirming Dabolim's continued role in civilian aviation.[1][3]

Political Context and Opposition Concerns

The recent speculation about Dabolim's closure originated when South Goa Member of Parliament Viriato Fernandes claimed to have received confidential information suggesting that plans were underway to hand over the airport entirely to the Indian Navy.[2][3] These claims prompted sharp reactions from various quarters, including opposition parties such as Goa Forward Party, Congress, and Aam Aadmi Party, who raised concerns about the airport's future.[1] The MP reportedly wrote to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh seeking clarity on the airport's operational status, expressing concerns that approximately 4.5 to 5 lakh people dependent directly or indirectly on the airport would face unemployment if closure occurred.[3]

Chief Minister Sawant dismissed these allegations as baseless and politically motivated, particularly noting that such concerns tend to resurface periodically, especially as elections approach.[1][3] He remarked that the opposition scouts for issues during election cycles, and accused the MP of making statements to mislead the public for political gains.[3] The Chief Minister's response reflects frustration with what the government views as unfounded speculation designed to create unnecessary alarm among the public and investors.[5]

When the Civil Aviation Ministry has spent so much on Dabolim's infrastructure, it is not to hand over the airport only to the Navy. It will permanently serve both the Navy and the public.

Assurances from National Leadership

Adding weight to the Chief Minister's reassurances, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has personally assured Goa that civil flights will not be stopped at Dabolim.[2][3] This statement from the central government's defence ministry carries significant credibility and represents an official position from New Delhi. The assurance demonstrates coordination between state and central authorities regarding the airport's future operational status and civilian utility.[3]

The Travel and Tourism Association of Goa has also weighed in on the matter, urging the Chief Minister to issue clear statements to reassure the public and allay fears caused by various news reports and rumors.[2] The association emphasized that Dabolim is vital and the backbone of South Goa's economy.[2] Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte similarly dismissed speculation, noting that both Dabolim and Manohar International Airport in Mopa are vital for Goa's civil aviation sector and will remain operational.[5]

The experience of other Indian airports demonstrates the viability of dual civilian-defence arrangements. For instance, Kashmir airport functions successfully as both a defence and civilian airport, providing a precedent for similar operations elsewhere.[2] This model proves that airports can effectively serve both purposes without compromising either civilian connectivity or military operational requirements.

The government's commitment to maintaining Dabolim's civilian operations represents a crucial decision for South Goa's economic development and tourism industry. With firm assurances from the Chief Minister, support from central defence leadership, and cabinet-level decisions backing the continued dual-use model, the airport's future as a civilian aviation hub appears secure. The substantial infrastructure investments made in recent years further underscore the government's determination to enhance Dabolim's capacity for both civilian and naval operations, ensuring that the facility continues serving the diverse needs of Goa's aviation sector and supporting the livelihoods of thousands of workers dependent on the airport.