PANAJI
The State government has set aside Rs 2 crore to incentivise international charter flights as it seeks to strengthen overseas connectivity and attract more foreign tourists during the upcoming tourism season, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said on Sunday.
In an official statement, Khaunte said Goa is set to witness increased international charter connectivity this season, with flights from Russia, Poland and Kazakhstan, besides UK charters from Manchester and London Gatwick beginning in November.
The first Russian charter of the 2026-27 tourism season arrived in Goa from Yekaterinburg on September 30, marking the start of the State’s winter charter tourism season.
Khaunte said the incentive programme is aimed at encouraging more charter operators to include Goa in their schedules and expand international air links.
He said strengthening international connectivity has remained a key priority since he took charge of the tourism portfolio in April 2022, with the government engaging with the Centre, airlines, tour operators and tourism stakeholders.
“Every new international connection creates opportunities for local businesses and communities,” Khaunte said.
He added that the government’s ‘Goa Beyond Beaches’ initiative seeks to encourage tourists to stay longer and explore the State’s villages, heritage, culture and cuisine.
The minister said the government expects the charter-intensive programme, backed by the incentive, to help deliver a strong winter tourism season.
