Goa is prioritising improved direct flight connections with key international markets and the tourism department is engaging in discussions with leading airlines and global travel platforms to enhance connectivity, a spokesperson told the CNBC-TV18 ravel Desk.
Tourist arrivals via charter flights highlight Goa’s growing appeal among foreign travellers, who are looking to experience Goa beyond its picturesque beaches and exploring inland areas and hotspots like the Dudhsagar waterfalls, a spokesperson from the tourism department told CNBC-TV18.
Overall, nearly 500 Polish tourists will arrive in Goa, whic is expected to boost global accessibility. Moreover, the state is prioritising improved direct flight connections with key international markets. The tourism department is engaging in discussions with leading airlines and global travel platforms to enhance connectivity, the spokesperson added.
“However, establishing solid direct international links requires further assistance from the Government of India, and we are actively pursuing this to make Goa a more attractive, accessible, and globally connected destination,” the spokesperson explained.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by the global travel industry, particularly the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which had a significant impact on international tourism. However, Goa’s international tourism is steadily recovering, he added.
“In 2023, foreign tourist arrivals surged to over 450,000, marking a substantial increase from the pandemic’s low points, as travel restrictions were lifted and global mobility improved,” the spokesperson stated.
The department further reported that Goa welcomed more than 8 million domestic visitors in 2023.
Addressing comparisons between Goa and other destinations such as Sri Lanka, the spokesperson emphasized that such comparisons could mislead and create a skewed perspective.
“Goa certainly faces some challenges, such as limited scheduled international air connectivity. However, the state government is collaborating closely with the Centre to reassess the point of call and seat entitlements for Goa, aiming to establish stronger international links,” he concluded.
