Goa's 2025 year-end tourism season began with the arrival of the first international charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, at Manohar International Airport, Mopa, on October 2. With additional services from Russia and future flights from Kazakhstan International, the expansion of connections from Goa increases arrivals, strengthens the hospitality sector and creates financial opportunities for the state tourism industry.
Goa welcomed the first international Charter Flight Tourism season, a service from Novosibirsk, Russia, which landed at Dabolim International Airport in Goa today. Arrival outlines Goa's growing demand as a global holiday destination and marks the start of a busy peak travel period. The arriving passengers were welcomed with a traditional ceremony, featuring cultural performances such as the Sami dance, Ghodmodney, and Dhangar Dance, accompanied by a brass band and a floral reception. The ceremony was attended by Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Jayesh Kankkonkar, Deputy Director of Tourism; Mrs Chitra Vengurlekar, Assistant Tourism Officer; Sheikh Ismail, Senior Vice President of Concord Foreign Visit; and Vice President Shubert Renald Kolako of the Minar Group.
This season, three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk will be added to Goa's network alongside existing flights from Yekaterinburg and Moscow. Aeroflot will then operate nine weekly flights into Goa, underlining strong interest from Russian travellers. Additionally, flights include a second 158-seater charter from Novosibirsk on October 3, B737-800 flights from Yekaterinburg on October 4 and 5, and a larger A330-300 service from Moscow on October 5.
International access would widen further with the launch of charter flights from Kazakhstan beginning October 25 2025. The expanded network is expected to significantly increase international arrivals, thereby strengthening Goa's hospitality sector, creating business opportunities, and diversifying source markets during the high-demand year-end period.
The Minister for Tourism, Rohan A Khaunt, said: "Goa is ready to welcome tourists with open arms as we step into a vivacious new season. The arrival of this first charter flight positions Goa as a preferred global destination. With increased safety infrastructure and an immersive experience, we are committed to ensuring that every visitor feels the warmth of Goon's guest freedom and discovers a unique mix of culture, traditions, and natural beauty in our state. ,,
Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, said: "The arrival of the first charter flight indicates a strong connection for Goa, especially when we enter the high season. This growth opens up new opportunities for transport for our local tourist interests and ensures that the benefits of tourism are widely shared over the entire state."
The tourism department collaborates with industry partners to ensure steady arrivals, increased passenger services, and a memorable reception. The 2025-26 charter season makes a significant contribution to Goa’s economy and fosters permanent and inclusive growth in the State's tourism sector.
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