Tag: Charter Flights

Travel

Charter Flights from Russia and Central Asia Boost International Tourist Inflow to Goa

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Travel Desk

Goa witnessed a significant boost in international tourist arrivals with the arrival of multiple charter flights from key global markets, reinforcing the state’s growing air connectivity during the peak holiday season. On 30 December 2025, a Nordwind Airlines charter flight from Moscow landed in Goa with 360 passengers, followed by another Nordwind charter from Yekaterinburg on 31 December carrying 373 passengers. Adding to this momentum, Fly Arystan operated a charter flight from Astana on 30 December, bringing 176 passengers from the Central Asian region.

Welcoming the arrivals, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, highlighted that the steady inflow of charter flights from Russia and Central Asia reflects increasing international confidence in Goa as a preferred holiday destination. He emphasised that strengthening air connectivity remains central to the state’s vision of promoting quality tourism while ensuring seamless and enriching visitor experiences.

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, noted that charter operations play a vital role in sustaining international arrivals and diversifying source markets. He stated that the Department of Tourism continues to work closely with airlines, airport authorities, and tourism stakeholders to facilitate smooth operations and expand Goa’s reach across both established and emerging global markets.

Through focused and strategic tourism initiatives, the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, remains committed to enhancing international connectivity, broadening its tourist base, and positioning Goa as a year-round global destination.

Travel

TUI Airways Launches Direct Charter Flights from the UK to Goa for Winter 2025–26 Season

Tanisha Cardozo

The Department of Tourism, Goa, is pleased to announce that TUI Airways, a leading charter holiday service provider, will commence direct charter services connecting the United Kingdom to Goa for the Winter 2025–26 season. The flights will operate from Manchester Airport (MAN) and London Gatwick Airport (LGW) to Manohar International Airport (GOX), Mopa, under the supervision of Freedom Holidays Pvt. Ltd.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, stated, “The commencement of TUI Airways’ charter services from the United Kingdom reflects Goa’s strengthening position in the global tourism landscape. Our focus continues to be on creating a regenerative tourism model that balances sustainability, community empowerment, and authentic cultural experiences for every traveller.”

Director of Tourism, Kedar Naik, added, “The Department has collaborated with all stakeholders to ensure seamless facilitation at Mopa Airport. The arrival of charter services from the UK underscores Goa’s readiness to deliver high-quality, responsible, and memorable experiences this winter season.”

Starting 5th November 2025, TUI Airways will operate four weekly flights, totaling 16 flights per month, with 83 flights scheduled for the season, including 17 in December 2025 and 18 in January 2026. This partnership highlights Goa’s increasing prominence as a preferred destination for long-haul international travellers.

The Department of Tourism will extend full support to ensure passengers enjoy a warm welcome and smooth travel experience. With its diverse tourism offerings, world-class hospitality, and commitment to sustainable development, Goa is ready to provide visitors from the UK a remarkable and unforgettable winter holiday.

Travel

Goa Unveils Bold Regenerative Tourism Vision at National Tourism Ministers’ Conference 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa presented a bold, regenerative tourism roadmap at the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference held in Udaipur on 14th and 15th October 2025. Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Government of Goa, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, led the delegation, accompanied by Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, and Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister. The event, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, brought together top tourism officials from across the country to align national and state-level strategies for transforming India into a leading global tourism destination.

Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized that Goa’s tourism strategy is grounded in regenerative principles—prioritizing economic growth, environmental stewardship, and community well-being. He shared that the 2025–26 season has begun on a strong note with increased international charter connectivity and the unveiling of major destination development projects designed to position Goa as a future-ready, experience-driven destination.

Two flagship projects were the highlight of Goa’s presentation: the Mega Performance Arena in Mandrem (Pernem) and the Lord Parshuram Statue & Museum, part of the Lifescape Project in Loliem (Canacona). The arena, a 20,000-seater world-class venue, will serve as a northern gateway for hosting international-scale events, cultural shows, and conventions. Meanwhile, the Parshuram project will become a landmark for cultural, spiritual, and immersive tourism in South Goa, reflecting Goa’s focus on “Goa Beyond Beaches.”

Shri Kedar Naik shared that Goa’s tourism transformation is built on inclusive growth, tech-enabled safety, and a visitor-first philosophy rooted in “Atithi Devo Bhava.” The state’s approach integrates infrastructure, heritage conservation, and cutting-edge digital solutions to enhance the tourist experience. Both the highlighted projects are expected to bring significant community benefits, including employment generation and cultural revival.

The conference also featured discussions on the Integrated Tourism Promotion Scheme, Performance Linked Incentives (PLI), and the development of 50 tourism destinations across India. Goa’s representation aligned closely with these frameworks, with its seven-pillar tourism diversification plan, encompassing eco-tourism, cultural heritage, MICE, adventure, leisure, wellness, and medical tourism.

In a significant update, Shri Khaunte also announced strengthened international air connectivity. Goa has witnessed the arrival of the first charter flight of the season, along with new weekly flights from Novosibirsk to MOPA. Aeroflot now operates nine weekly flights from Moscow, Yekaterinburg, and Novosibirsk, solidifying Goa’s growing presence in the Russian market. Starting 25th October, charter flights from Kazakhstan will further diversify inbound tourism sources.

With its strategic direction, Goa is poised to emerge as a national leader in sustainable, inclusive, and globally competitive tourism. Its participation in the National Tourism Ministers’ Conference reaffirmed its commitment to being a collaborative and visionary stakeholder in shaping the future of Indian tourism.

Travel

First International Charter Flight Lands at Mopa Airport, Marking Start of Goa’s Peak Tourist Season

Tanisha Cardozo

Goa officially welcomed the 2025–26 year-end travel season with the arrival of its first international charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, at Manohar International Airport (Mopa) on October 2. The occasion marks a significant milestone for the state’s tourism industry, reinforcing Goa’s status as a preferred international travel destination.

The arrival was celebrated with a traditional Goan welcome that included folk performances such as the Samayi Dance, Ghodemodni, and Dhangar Dance. A brass band and floral greetings completed the warm reception, showcasing Goa’s hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The dignitaries present included Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik, Deputy Director of Tourism Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Tourist Officer Smt Chitra Vengurlekar, Senior Vice-President of Concord Exotic Voyages Shri Sheik Ismail, and Vice-President of Minar Group Shri Shubert Reinald Colaco.

This season, Goa will see a significant increase in connectivity from Russia with three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk joining existing routes from Yekaterinburg and Moscow. Aeroflot’s operations have now grown to nine flights a week, reflecting the rising demand for Goa among Russian travellers.

The momentum continues with a second charter flight from Novosibirsk scheduled to arrive on October 3 at 06:00 AM, followed by flights from Yekaterinburg on October 4 and 5, and a large-capacity A330-300 flight from Moscow arriving on October 5. Further enhancing Goa’s global connectivity, direct charter flights from Kazakhstan are set to commence on October 25, 2025.

The influx of international tourists is expected to boost Goa’s hospitality sector and open new avenues for economic growth. It also signifies a shift toward a more diverse and resilient tourism landscape with expanded source markets.

Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte expressed pride in Goa’s preparedness, stating that the state is ready to welcome the world with enhanced infrastructure, immersive experiences, and the warmth of Goan hospitality. Director of Tourism Shri Kedar Naik echoed the sentiment, highlighting how increased air connectivity is creating opportunities for stakeholders across the tourism value chain.

With coordinated efforts from the Department of Tourism and industry players, Goa is all set for a vibrant and impactful tourist season. The arrival of charter flights not only strengthens international ties but also ensures that tourism continues to serve as a vital contributor to the state’s inclusive economic growth.

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Department of Tourism hosts memorable sunset boat cruise tour for Polish travel agents

allycaralgoa

Panaji, 5th December 2024: The Department of Tourism in collaboration with Travel Corporation India (TCI), hosted a sunset boat cruise tour for around 30 travel agents from Poland on December 5, 2024. The event aimed to showcase Goa’s scenic beauty, rich culture and attract more tourists from Poland to Goa.

The guests were cordially welcomed at Captain’s Club, Ribander, by Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC; Shri Deepak Narvekar, Deputy General Manager (Marketing), GTDC; Shri Shawn Mendes, OSD to the Minister for Tourism; Shri Ernest Dias, Chief operating officer, TCI and Shri Jayesh Kankonkar, Assistant Director of Tourism. The evening began with an engaging presentation by Shri Gavin Dias, spotlighting Goa’s vibrant heritage, cultural diversity, and stunning landscapes followed by the screening of a captivating video highlighting Goa’s unique hidden gems and current tourism initiatives was played, offering guests a glimpse into the state’s diverse attractions.

The highlight of the tour was a boat cruise from Ribander, offering stunning views of Old Goa and Panaji. The serene journey, with its calm waters and lush greenery, gave guests unforgettable memories as they enjoyed views of Goa’s landmarks, including the World Heritage Sites at Old Goa along with Divar Island, Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, and Atal Setu, showcasing the region’s beauty and history. The guests were brought to Goa by Rainbow Tours, the charter operator that facilitates charter flights to the state, with two flights arriving every 10 days.

Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, Director of Tourism and Managing Director of GTDC remarked, “This initiative highlights Goa’s breathtaking scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, offering an immersive experience for guests while strengthening international tourism ties. By creating experiences that celebrate Goa’s essence, we aim to inspire a deeper understanding of sustainable tourism that benefits both visitors and the local community.”

Shri Gavin Dias, General Manager, GTDC, highlighted, “Goa’s seamless connectivity through charter flights, waterways, rail, and road, along with user-friendly apps like Goa Taxi and Goa Miles, ensures hassle-free travel. With its cultural treasures like Chikhal Kalo and São João among others, exciting adventures, and serene wellness retreats, Goa offers something unique for every traveller.”

Recently, Department of Tourism, also successfully hosted the Goa Roadshow 2024 in Warsaw, Poland. This exclusive invite-only event showcased Goa’s rich heritage, cultural traditions, and tourism offerings, engaging Polish travel stakeholders through presentations, interactive sessions, and personalized discussions strengthening ties with the Polish travel community.

The cruise ride concluded with the travellers expressing their admiration for Goa’s natural beauty and the immersive experience curated for them. This collaboration is yet another step in promoting Goa as a global tourism hub, blending its rich traditions with modern sensibilities to create unforgettable journeys.