Manohar International Airport is the second international airport in Goa at Mopa, North Goa. It was inaugurated in January 2023 and has since become an operational hub, significantly enhancing connectivity to North Goa, alleviating traffic congestion at Dabolim Airport, and promoting tourism, business, and infrastructure growth. This airport is also popularly referred to as Mopa Airport, and it handles millions of domestic and international passengers and is an important contributor to the economic development of Goa.

What is Manohar International Airport?

Manohar International Airport (GOX) is a modern greenfield airport situated at Mopa Village, Pernem Taluka, in North Goa. The airport was built to accommodate the growing demand for air travel in Goa and to offer the state top-notch aviation facilities.

It is also called Mopa Airport and is a complement to the existing Dabolim Airport, which serves passengers from North Goa, popular beaches and the surrounding areas of Maharashtra. Since its inauguration, the airport has emerged as one of the most vital aviation infrastructure projects in India, providing speedy connectivity, enhanced passenger amenities, and expansion prospects.

Also Read… How to Choose Top Real Estate Consultant in Goa

Manohar International Airport at a Glance

Information	Details
Airport Name	Manohar International Airport
Popular Name	Mopa Airport
IATA Code	GOX
Location	Mopa, Pernem Taluka, North Goa
State	Goa
Airport Type	Greenfield International Airport
Operational Since	January 2023
Named After	Manohar Parrikar
Serves	North Goa, South Maharashtra & Surrounding Regions

Why Was Manohar International Airport Built?

Before the construction of Manohar International Airport in Goa, the airport was completely relying on Dabolim Airport, which serves both civilians and the Indian Navy as an airbase. Tourism is on the rise, which has led to a large rise in passenger numbers and the need for a second airport to take more domestic and international flights.

The development of Goa Airport Mopa aimed at:

Easing congestion at Dabolim Airport

Enhancing air connectivity in India and outside the country. Air connectivity improvement in India and abroad.

Supporting Goa’s tourism industry

Pumping up the economy and infrastructure is essential. It is crucial to grow the economy and infrastructure.

Creating employment opportunities

Providing investment incentives in North Goa

In today’s era, the airport holds significant importance in enhancing Goa’s status as one of India’s top tourist hubs.

Also Read… Best Beaches in Goa 2026

Where is Goa Airport Mopa Located?

Goa Airport Mopa is located in Mopa village, Pernem taluka, some 35-40 kilometres from Panaji, the capital of Goa. Located in a strategic position, it is easily accessible to the beaches, resorts, and heritage villages of North Goa and the Maharashtra-Goa border.

Nearby Destinations

Destination	Approximate Distance
Panaji	35–40 km
Mapusa	25 km
Morjim Beach	20 km
Arambol Beach	18 km
Mandrem Beach	22 km
Vagator	28 km
Calangute	35 km
Sawantwadi	30 km

Due to its location, Manohar International Airport is the most preferred airport for tourists who visit North Goa, Sindhudurg, and the nearby tourist spots.

Inside the Goa Airport Terminal

The modern Goa Airport terminal, Manohar International Airport is designed to make travel a smooth, comfortable and efficient experience. Its terminal is one of the most modern in India, equipped with advanced technology, and has an excellent facility for passengers.

Passengers can enjoy:

• Spacious check-in areas
• Self-service kiosks
• Automated baggage handling systems
• Multiple security screening lanes
• Comfortable waiting lounges
• Restaurants and cafés
• Shopping and retail outlets
• Car rental services
• Taxi facilities
• Premium lounges

Reservations in Kiawah Sounds are accessible for differently abled travellers and senior citizens. Senior citizen and differently abled traveller accessible reserves in Kiawah Sound.

The design of the terminal also reflects the contemporary architectural style, with elements inspired by the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Goa.

Also Read… Goa Real Estate Market 2026

Flights and Connectivity

Manohar International Airport links Goa to various major cities in the country via domestic air services and is steadily increasing the number of international destinations served.

Popular domestic routes include the following:

• Delhi
• Mumbai
• Bengaluru
• Hyderabad
• Chennai
• Pune
• Ahmedabad
• Kolkata

The airport is also capable of handling international flights, and airlines operating from Goa rely on seasonal schedules and airline availability for the flights.

The improved connectivity has made it easier to plan holidays to North Goa as travel time has been substantially cut.

Goa International Airport GOI vs GOX: What’s the Difference?

A popular query of travellers is ‘What is the difference between Goa International Airport GOI and GOX?’

The answer is simple:

• Dabolim Airport in South Goa is called GOI.
• The IATA airport code of Manohar International Airport, Mopa, North Goa is GOX.

Feature	Manohar International Airport (GOX)	Goa International Airport (GOI)
Location	North Goa	South Goa
Airport Code	GOX	GOI
Airport Type	Greenfield International Airport	Civil Enclave Airport
Best For	North Goa, Pernem, Morjim, Arambol, Mandrem & nearby destinations	South Goa, Vasco da Gama, Colva, Benaulim & nearby destinations
Expansion Potential	High	Limited

Goa Airport Mopa is more convenient for travellers to visit beaches such as Morjim, Arambol, Ashwem, Mandrem, and Vagator, as the roads are shorter.

How Manohar International Airport Benefits Tourism

Tourism is the mainstay of Goa’s economy, and Manohar International Airport has made a huge contribution towards bolstering the tourism infrastructure of the state.

The airport has enhanced the accessibility for:

• North Goa beaches
• Luxury villas and luxury resorts.
• Wellness retreats
• Adventure tourism destinations
• Heritage sites
• Wedding venues
• Business conferences
• Eco-tourism experiences

Improved connectivity will make North Goa more accessible and thus boost the number of days spent on the island, as well as the sum of tourist expenditure.

Economic and Real Estate Growth Around Mopa Airport

Since the Mopa Airport opened up, there has been a spate of development taking place in North Goa and adjoining areas. Better infrastructure has led to investments in the hospitality, retail, transport, logistics and residential sectors.

There has been an increasing demand in areas around the airport for:

• Premium residential plots
• Villas
• Holiday homes
• Farmhouse communities
• Hotels and resorts
• Commercial spaces

The airport is still contributing to future economic development, as its connectivity continues to improve and provide jobs for local communities.

Conclusion

The Manohar International Airport has emerged as one of the key infrastructure projects in Goa, providing state-of-the-art air navigation and communication systems as well as better connectivity for domestic and international passengers. It is commonly referred to as Mopa Airport and is part of Goa International Airport (GOI), which helps reduce congestion at Dabolim Airport while enhancing convenience in North Goa. The Manohar International Airport, located at a strategic position and fully equipped with modern facilities at the Goa Airport, a growing network of flights, and the airport’s contribution to tourism and regional development, is making it a part of the future of air travel in Goa and helping the economy, investment and making the travel experience an excellent one for millions of passengers per year.

Frequently Asked Questions