Goa is a popular tourist destination in India, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and delicious food. If you’re planning a trip to Goa, you’ll need to know how to get there. The good news is that Goa has a well-developed transportation infrastructure, including a couple of airports that serve the state. But how many airports are there in Goa?
Goa’s Main Airport
Goa has one main airport, sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1, also known as Goa International Airport. It is located in Dabolim, which is about 30 kilometers from Panaji, the state capital. This airport is the busiest in Goa, handling both domestic and international flights. It connects Goa to major cities in India and around the world.
A Second Airport for Goa
While Dabolim airport handles the majority of traffic, Goa is also set to get a second airport, which will be a greenfield airport at Mopa. The sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1 is being built in North Goa and is expected to be operational by the end of 2022. This new airport will help to ease the pressure on Dabolim airport and provide better connectivity for tourists visiting North Goa.
How Many Airports Does Goa Have?
So, to answer your question, Goa has one main airport, Dabolim, and is getting a second one at Mopa. Both are important to the state’s tourism industry and are helping to connect Goa with the rest of the world.
Why Does Goa Need Two Airports?
The increasing number of tourists visiting Goa led to the need for a second airport. The existing Dabolim airport was struggling to handle the influx of passengers, especially during peak season. The new airport at Mopa will not only help to reduce congestion at Dabolim but also provide better connectivity for tourists visiting North Goa.
What to Expect at Goa’s Airports
Both sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1 and the upcoming Mopa airport offer a range of facilities for passengers, including:
- Check-in counters: These counters are located in the terminal building and are where you will check in for your flight.
- Security screening: This is where you will have to go through security checks before you can board your flight.
- Baggage claim: This is where you will collect your luggage after your flight has landed.
- Restaurants and cafes: There are a number of restaurants and cafes at both airports where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink.
- Shops: The airports also have a selection of shops where you can buy souvenirs, duty-free goods, or anything else you need.
FAQ
1. What is the busiest airport in Goa?
sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1 is the busiest airport in Goa, handling both domestic and international flights.
2. What are the best ways to get to Goa airport from Panaji?
The best way to get to Goa airport from Panaji is by taxi. You can also take a bus, but this might take longer.
3. Is there a direct flight from London to Goa airport?
Yes, there are direct flights from London to sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1 offered by a few airlines.
4. What is the name of the new airport in Goa?
The new airport in Goa is located at Mopa.
5. What is the difference between Dabolim airport and Mopa airport?
Dabolim airport is the main airport in Goa and handles both domestic and international flights. The new airport at Mopa is being built to ease the pressure on Dabolim airport and provide better connectivity for tourists visiting North Goa.
6. What are the airlines that fly to Goa airport?
Many airlines operate flights to Goa airport, including Air India, Jet Airways, GoAir, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and international airlines like British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
7. Are there any restrictions on carrying liquids in hand baggage at Goa airport?
Yes, there are restrictions on carrying liquids in hand baggage at Goa airport. You can only carry liquids in containers of 100 ml or less, and all liquids must be placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag.
Conclusion
Goa has one main airport, sardar vallabhbhai patel international airport terminal 1 in Dabolim, and is getting a second airport at Mopa. Both are important to the state’s tourism industry, and they are helping to connect Goa with the rest of the world. So, if you’re planning a trip to Goa, make sure you factor in travel time to and from the airport when planning your itinerary.
If you have any more questions about Goa’s airports, please feel free to ask!