Goa begins 2025–26 charter season with first SCAT Airlines flight from Almaty, supporting “Goa Beyond Beaches” tourism strategy.
Goa Tourism has marked the start of the 2025–26 charter season with the arrival of the first international charter flight from Almaty, Kazakhstan. Operated by SCAT Airlines (Flight SCAT VSV5212), the aircraft landed at Dabolim Airport in South Goa at 5:30 AM on 25th October 2025, bringing visitors to experience Goa’s attractions under the “Goa Beyond Beaches” initiative.
Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, highlighted the significance of the milestone, stating: “The arrival of the first charter flight from Kazakhstan signifies Goa’s growing international connectivity and appeal as a global destination. We are committed to strengthening such partnerships and expanding our charter network to diversify source markets while ensuring a sustainable and regenerative approach to tourism.”
Director of Tourism, Shri Kedar Naik, noted the continued appeal of the destination: “Each new charter flight reinforces Goa’s position as a preferred leisure destination. We appreciate the continued efforts of our travel partners and stakeholders in promoting Goa and ensuring smooth operations at both Dabolim and Mopa airports.”
To commemorate the inaugural arrival, a welcome program was organized by the Department of Tourism, Government of Goa, together with Concord Exotic Voyages and TTAG. Passengers were greeted with a brass band performance, garlands, and flowers, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony celebrating the launch of the charter season.
Goa Tourism anticipates several additional charter operations from international markets in the coming weeks. The destination continues to focus on diverse tourism offerings, including cultural, adventure, wellness, and heritage experiences that strengthen its positioning beyond traditional beach tourism.