Goa’s much-anticipated 2025 tourism season will officially launch on October 2 with the arrival of the first international flight from Novosibirsk, Russia, landing at Manohar International Airport in North Goa. The Aeroflot flight, carrying 120 passengers, is set to touch down at 1:30 a.m., marking the start of what tourism officials predict will be a bustling season for the coastal state known for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural charm.

The state’s Tourism Department is rolling out the red carpet for these early arrivals, with a warm welcome planned at the airport. “This flight signals the beginning of a promising international tourist season,” said a senior official from the department. The state has already prepared for the influx by setting up its iconic beach shacks, which are a hallmark of Goa’s laid-back coastal vibe.

Sheik Ismail, senior vice president of Concord Exotic Voyages, the agency handling the flight, highlighted the significance of this new route. “For the first time, we’re seeing a direct flight from Novosibirsk, Russia’s third-largest city and Siberia’s most populous hub, to Goa,” he said. His company will manage nine weekly flights from Russia, with three each from Novosibirsk, Yekaterinburg, and Moscow, running from October through May 2026. This expanded connectivity is expected to bring a steady stream of Russian tourists, a key demographic for Goa’s tourism industry.

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Ernest Dias, vice president of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa, expressed optimism about the season. “The outlook for international tourism is brighter than ever,” he said. In addition to scheduled flights, chartered flights from Novosibirsk and other Russian cities will boost arrivals. The state also anticipates a rise in Free Independent Travellers (FITs), who plan their trips independently, adding to the diversity of visitors.

Goa’s preparations are in full swing, with the Tourism Department issuing licenses for beach shacks to ensure they’re ready to welcome guests. Cruz Cardoso, president of the Shack Owners Welfare Society, noted that Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has prioritized early shack setups. “Last year, we issued 355 licenses across various beaches,” Cardoso said. “This year’s final count will be clear by the end of October, but we’re gearing up for a busy season.”

In 2024, Goa welcomed 1.04 crore tourists, including 4.67 lakh international visitors, according to official data. With new flight routes and a growing global interest in its sun-soaked shores, Goa is poised for a record-breaking 2025 season, blending its signature hospitality with a vibrant cultural and culinary scene.

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