PANAJI: Goa’s year-end peak tourism season kicked off today with the arrival of the first charter flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, at Manohar International Airport, Mopa.
The arrival was marked by traditional Goan hospitality, featuring cultural performances including Samayi Dance, Ghodemodni, and Dhangar Dance, accompanied by a brass band and floral greetings for passengers.
This season, Aeroflot introduces three new weekly flights from Novosibirsk, complementing existing services from Yekaterinburg and Moscow, bringing the total to nine weekly flights. The second Novosibirsk charter, a 158-seater flight, is scheduled for October 3 at 6 am. Flights from Yekaterinburg on B737-800 aircraft carrying 158 passengers each will arrive on October 4 at 6.05 am and on October 5 at 8.05 am. Adding further capacity, a direct service from Moscow on an A330-300 with 296 seats is set to arrive on October 5 at 9 am.
International connectivity will expand further with charter flights from Kazakhstan beginning October 25. The enhanced network is expected to boost inbound tourism, particularly during the high-demand year-end season, while supporting the hospitality sector and creating wider economic opportunities for local businesses.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said Goa is ready to welcome tourists as the peak season begins, calling the arrival of the first charter flight a strong signal of Goa’s position as a preferred global destination. "With enhanced safety, infrastructure, and immersive experiences, we are committed to ensuring every visitor feels the warmth of Goan hospitality while discovering the unique blend of culture, traditions, and natural beauty our state offers,” Khaunte added.
Tourism Director Kedar Naik noted that the charter flights strengthen the state's connectivity. "This growth opens new opportunities for local tourism stakeholders, from hospitality to transport, and ensures that the benefits of tourism are shared widely across the state,” Naik said.
