Panaji, Oct 26 The Manohar International Airport at Mopa in North Goa on Monday welcomed its first charter flight from Kazakhstan for the winter 2026-27 tourism season, with 177 passengers arriving in the coastal state from the Central Asian country.
The arrival of the aircraft from Almaty in Kazakhstan marks the first charter flight of the season at the Mopa airport, which started operations in January 2023, even as charter operations to Goa through other airports have already commenced, officials said.
Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte said the arrival of tourists from Kazakhstan was an encouraging development as the state prepared to welcome international visitors during the winter season.
He maintained the government was focused on expanding Goa’s reach across international markets and showcasing its cultural heritage, diverse tourism experiences and hospitality to travellers from across the world.
The arrival also strengthens Goa’s tourism outreach in Kazakhstan and the wider Central Asian region, with the coastal state seeking to attract visitors through offerings beyond its beaches, including heritage, spirituality, local cuisine, nature and cultural experiences, Khaunte said.
Director of Tourism Kedar Naik said the first charter arrival at Mopa added momentum to the state’s international tourism outreach.
Improved connectivity from markets such as Kazakhstan would make Goa more accessible to international visitors, while the tourism department would encourage travellers to explore the state’s heritage, traditions, cuisine, natural attractions and local communities, he said.
Goa is seeking to strengthen its engagement with international travel partners and promote a wider range of tourism experiences as the winter 2026-27 season gathers pace.
The first charter arrival from Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city, is expected to support seasonal charter operations at the Mopa airport and the state’s broader efforts to expand international tourism connectivity, the officials said.
(PTI News)
