Goa, known for its significant share in the country’s flight charter business has witnessed a steep cut in numbers in the last two years. One of the key factors for this decline is due to the weak demand from the Russian market, which was one of the largest source markets for Goa.
Savio Messias, President, Travel and Tourism Association of Goa said, “We have witnessed a dip of about 50 per cent two years ago but last year we saw a slight increase of about 10 per cent over the previous year. In short we are unable to reach the arrivals of 2013-14 which saw the Russian arrivals at its peak. In 2013-14 any and every hotel was sold out and I don’t see such a scenario in the near future.”
In 2013-14, Goa witnessed one of the biggest season for charter services and welcomed 1128 Charter flights with a total of 2,61,452 passengers. In the last season the destination witnessed a sharp fall to only 895 with 1,61,316 tourists. In the current fiscal, Goa is expecting to recover the charter flight tourism figures. Also, in the current season the destination will welcome travellers from novel source markets like Prague and Holland. Messias added, “This season we are expecting a 20 per cent increase in charter arrivals as we have an additional flight every week from UK, besides the Russian market is also expected to grow marginally. This season we are also expecting a charter from Prague; it is expected to be a weekly flight with around 200 seats and weekly groups from Holland.”
Already this year till May 13, 2016, the destination has seen a slight increase in the number of flights reaching 798 with 1,58,779 travellers. One of the key reasons for this rise can be attributed to the implementation of e Tourist Visa at the Dabolim Airport. He added, “The e Tourist Visa has helped Goa tremendously, especially in the growth of the Russian market. Goa now stands third in the country in the number of e visa arrivals.”
TTAG as one of the apex association in Goa suggests that Goa Tourism must promote the private air charters in a more aggressive way. Also, to become more competitive in the global map the association demands for subsidies. Messias said, “We are hoping that the government would play a role in subsidising certain costs which would help increase the charter arrivals. Many countries are offering subsidies like lower airport charges, brochures support etc. This can boost the charter business tremendously in Goa. Also the segment could do better especially if it is promoted in the foreign countries. We need to have a dedicated marketing team consisting of marketing professionals and the TTAG should be included in joint promotions.”
