Vasco (Goa)  The first charter flight from Moscow arrived at the Goa International Airport, Dabolim today, marking the beginning of the tourism season in Goa for the year 2017-18.

The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Govt. of Goa, Mr. Manohar Ajgaonkar said, ”it’s a flying start for the new tourism season with the arrival  of  519 foreign tourists from Russia on the first charter flight which arrived in Goa today. I am very happy that the new tourism season has begun and am confident that it will progress smoothly and satisfactorily. I received  an overwhelming response  from tour operators  when  I was in Moscow  last month and  both Goa Tourism and  the Russian  travel and  tour operators  had very fruitful discussions and  business  interactions which will have  positive results for Goa this season. I welcome the arrival of the first charter and wish all our tourism stakeholders and charter handling agencies a very successful season. I  once again reiterate  that even as Goa Tourism is very serious about  ensuring the safety and security  of all its tourists,  I appeal to all our foreign and  domestic guests to enjoy responsibly  and to  follow the  laws of the land and  all the DOs and  D’ONTs  to avoid  risking  or endangering their lives. The Goa police,  lifeguards and locals serve as  our ambassadors  and one needs to  pay heed to  them  at times in addition to following  signboards,  warning notices and whatever  awareness is created  in the interest of  tourists.”

Biblio Globus in association with Concord Exotic Voyages (P) Ltd today brought its first charter flight with 519 passengers from Russia on board Rossiya Airlines which arrived at Goa airport, Dabolim  at  8:30 a.m.

Goa Tourism accorded a warm welcome to the charter passengers on arrival at the airport with a brass band and presentation of roses and sweets to all the passengers.

Goa Tourism is expecting a good charter season this year and is taking all necessary steps to  clear out hurdles at the airport with regards to  landings and  slots for charters.

While there was a dip in charter arrivals due to recession and geo-political scenario across the globe, the year 2016-17 saw a surge in arrival of charters and passengers. This year Goa Tourism is optimistic and confident of crossing the 1000 mark of charter flights.

This year 519 passengers arrived on the first charter alone as against 492 passengers last year.