Tag: KedarNaik

Travel

Goa Welcomes First Charter Flight from Katowice, Poland for the Season

allycaralgoa

Panjim, 9th January 2026 – Goa celebrated a key moment in its international tourism calendar with the arrival of charter flight ENT 1443 from Katowice, Poland, landing at Manohar International Airport (MOPA) at 09:30 hrs on Friday, 9 January 2026.

The flight, carrying 189 passengers, is the first charter arrival from Katowice for the current tourist season and the second charter flight from Poland to the state this year. Passengers received a warm Goan welcome, reflecting the state’s commitment to hospitality and visitor experience.

Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, expressed optimism about the arrival:
“The first charter flight from Katowice is a positive development for Goa’s international tourism sector. Poland remains an important source market for us, and charter operations like this strengthen our efforts to diversify markets and promote quality tourism. We are committed to improving connectivity, ensuring seamless travel experiences, and positioning Goa as a responsible, year-round global destination.”

Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, added:
“Charter arrivals such as these are vital in sustaining international tourist inflow and supporting local stakeholders. The growing interest from Polish travellers underscores Goa’s appeal beyond beaches, encompassing culture, wellness, hinterland experiences, and nature-based tourism. We will continue collaborating with airlines and tour operators to enhance international connectivity.”

The charter operations from Poland highlight Goa’s increasing popularity among European tourists and reinforce the state’s ongoing efforts to expand air connectivity with key markets. The Department of Tourism continues to work closely with stakeholders to promote year-round tourism, ensuring visitors experience Goa’s diverse offerings, including its coastline, wellness, culture, cuisine, and hinterland adventures.

With the arrival of this charter, Goa strengthens its presence in the European travel market and sets a positive tone for the current tourist season.

#TravelwithAllycaral 👒

Goa Sees Strong Growth in Domestic and International Flight Connections in 2024–25

Tanisha Cardozo

Team Allycaral

Goa continues to evolve as one of India’s most well-connected travel destinations, with the 2024–25 season witnessing significant growth in air connectivity. From expanded international charter services to enhanced domestic flight access, the state is solidifying its status as a year-round, global tourism hub.

📈 Major Highlights:

  • Charter Flights Boom:
     Goa welcomed new charter services from countries including Russia, the UK, Kazakhstan, Poland, and Uzbekistan, following strong feedback from global tour operators.
  • Increased International Routes:
     Regular scheduled flights from the Gulf and Iran boosted international arrivals.
  • Improved Domestic Access:
     New connections linked Goa to Solapur, Hyderabad, Jalgaon, Agatti, and Lakshadweep, expanding its reach to tier-2 and seasonal travel markets.
  • Two Airports at Work:
     Both Goa International Airport (Dabolim) and Manohar International Airport (Mopa) played pivotal roles in sustaining traffic throughout the year.

💬 Voices from the Industry:

Hon’ble Tourism Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte emphasized,

“This growth in air access is key to our tourism strategy. Better connectivity brings in wider audiences globally and enables us to promote Goa’s rich offerings beyond the conventional.”

Shri Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism, added:

“This season has proven that strong connectivity leads to stronger, year-round tourism.”

Ernest Dias, COO of TCI and SITA, shared that efforts are already underway to increase charter flights from Russia and explore new markets like Scandinavia.

Sh. George Varughese, Airport Director of Goa International Airport, confirmed strategic operational upgrades to manage rising footfall, stating:

“Our focus remains on ensuring a hassle-free start to every visitor’s time in Goa.”

🌍 FIT Travellers on the Rise

Free Independent Travellers (FITs) from Portugal, Spain, and the Gulf are increasingly choosing Goa as their destination — attracted by improved connectivity and the state’s evolving mix of experiences.

🧭 Looking Ahead

The state government, along with stakeholders and airport authorities, remains focused on:

  • Deepening airline partnerships
  • Exploring new charter routes
  • Upgrading airport infrastructure
  • Promoting immersive, long-stay tourism

As Goa pushes boundaries with new markets and experiences, connectivity is not just a convenience—it’s a catalyst for the state’s tourism evolution.