New Airport Advisory Committee Declared for Goa International Airport
Goa, February 26 – The first meeting of the newly formed Airport Advisory Committee (AAC) for Goa International Airport (GOI) was held today under the chairmanship of South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes. The meeting, aimed at improving airport services and passenger experience, saw the participation of key members, including Mr. Orville Dourado Rodrigues, Mr. Jayesh Shetgaonkar, Mr. Blaise Costabir, Mr. Nandadeep Raut, and Mr. Sarveshwar Dhond, among others.
The Airport Director, Mr. George Varughese, welcomed the Chairman with a shawl and a floral bouquet before discussions commenced on enhancing airport functionality and passenger facilitation.
Objectives of the Airport Advisory Committee
The primary goal of the AAC is to make Goa International Airport more user-friendly by addressing key passenger concerns. The committee will focus on:
- Improving passenger amenities
- Reducing congestion at the airport
- Enhancing cleanliness and solid waste management
- Regulating transport and taxi services
- Addressing road traffic congestion near the airport
- Ensuring uninterrupted essential services during political agitations
- Preventing land encroachments and ensuring smooth drainage systems
- Strengthening emergency medical support with doctors and ambulances
Key Issues Discussed
During the meeting, Chairman Capt. Viriato Fernandes and committee members proposed multiple initiatives to enhance airport facilities. These included:
Attracting more air traffic from Gulf and European countries
Providing free WiFi for passengers
Improving vehicle parking facilities
Tackling garbage issues to prevent bird hits
Addressing stray dog menace in the airport vicinity
Enhancing cargo handling facilities
The members also suggested that the committee meet more frequently than mandated to ensure swift action on pressing issues.
This initiative is expected to significantly boost the image of Goa International Airport by elevating service standards and addressing long-standing concerns of passengers and stakeholders.
