First Charter Flight From Kazakhstan Arrives in Goa With 189 Passengers

Goa’s tourism season for 2026-27 has received a boost with the arrival of the first charter flight from Kazakhstan, carrying 189 passengers from Almaty to Dabolim airport, officials said on Saturday.

The arrival marks the commencement of SCAT Airlines’ charter operations from Kazakhstan for the current tourism season and is expected to strengthen Goa’s international connectivity, particularly with emerging markets across Central Asia. Officials said the flight’s arrival comes as Goa seeks to attract more international visitors during the winter holiday period. The state is focusing on expanding its overseas tourist base by improving air connectivity and promoting its diverse tourism offerings.

Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte described the development as an encouraging sign for Goa’s international tourism outreach, highlighting the potential of Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region as emerging source markets.

“The arrival is an encouraging development for Goa’s international tourism outreach, highlighting the potential of Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region as emerging source markets,” Khaunte said. He added that the state would continue to strengthen international connectivity while showcasing its cultural heritage, culinary experiences, wellness offerings and hospitality to attract visitors from different parts of the world.

Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said the arrival from Almaty added to Goa’s international charter flight operations for the season. The Department of Tourism will continue to coordinate with airlines, tour operators and other industry stakeholders to promote Goa as an international holiday destination, Naik said. Charter flights play an important role in connecting tourist destinations with overseas markets, particularly during peak holiday periods. Improved air links can also make travel more convenient for international visitors and support tourism-related businesses.

With Kazakhstan emerging as a potential source market, Goa is looking to broaden its international reach and attract travellers seeking beach holidays, cultural experiences, wellness tourism and leisure activities. The arrival of the first charter flight from Almaty signals the beginning of another season of efforts to expand Goa’s overseas tourism connections and strengthen its position as an international holiday destination.