India’s popular holiday destination – ‘Goa’ will now have an added international destination with Uzbekistan Airways announcing direct flights connecting Tashkent to Goa. The flights will start from October 27, 2024 with twice weekly flights. The airline will deploy its latest Airbus A320neo on the route.

Interestingly Uzbekistan Airways chose the new Goa Airport ‘The Manohar Parrikar Airport’ instead of the Old South Goa Dabolim airport yet again proving that having two airports in Goa was worth the wait.

The Goa Department of Tourism played a major role in these flights with crucial support from the Uzbekistan Embassy, tour operators and the Indian Embassy in Tashkent.

Marking a significant milestone in enhancing Goa’s connectivity with Central Asia, Rohan A Khaunte, minister for tourism, Goa said that this new connection will not only boost tourism but also strengthen our cultural ties with Uzbekistan. “We are committed to developing Goa as a well-connected and accessible destination for travellers worldwide.” 

Speaking about Goa’s growing value as a prime tourist destination and growing global interest in the state, Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, director, Tourism and managing director, GTDC said: “This direct connectivity will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for visitors from Uzbekistan, making Goa more accessible and inviting.”

The Department of Tourism expects an influx of tourists from Uzbekistan and showcases Goa’s unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. The launch of this new flight route will play a pivotal role in boosting tourism from Uzbekistan, contributing directly to the expansion of Goa’s tourism sector.  Plus, this new route also aligns with the state’s broader strategy to diversify the tourist base and promote Goa as a year-round destination.