Manohar International Airport, Goa – Adds New International Connection: Launches Direct Flights to Tashkent

Goa Khabar:  Manohar International Airport (GOX), developed and operated by GMR Goa International Airport Ltd. (GGIAL), proudly announces the launch of direct scheduled flights to Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS), operated by Uzbekistan Airways. This new route establishes a vital connection between Goa and Tashkent, enriching travel options for tourists from both destinations.

 The biweekly flights, scheduled every Wednesday and Sunday, will utilize a narrow-body Airbus A320 or equivalent aircraft. Along with direct flights to Tashkent, Uzbekistan Airways will offer one-stop connections to key cities in Russia and Europe, providing convenient travel opportunities for Goa’s outbound travellers.

 Today’s inaugural flight – an Airbus A320 Neo with seating capacity of 150 passengers arrived at GOX at 10:55 hours with 111 passengers, marking a new chapter in Goa’s global connectivity. The flight departed for Tashkent at 12:15 hours with 84 passengers, paving the way for smoother travel between the two culturally vibrant locations.

Uzbekistan, known for its ancient cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, is gaining popularity among Indian travellers for its rich history, unique landscapes, and warm hospitality. In turn, tourists from Uzbekistan can now discover the diverse attractions of Goa – from sun-kissed beaches and culinary delights to cultural heritage and dynamic festivals.

The addition of Uzbekistan to the list of international destinations connected to Goa is expected to boost inbound tourism, attract foreign visitors, and open new outbound travel opportunities. With e-Visa facilities and top-tier infrastructure, Manohar International Airport is equipped to offer seamless travel experiences, fostering both tourism and socio-economic development.

Reflecting on the significance of this new service, Mr. R.V. Sheshan, CEO of GGIAL, stated: “The launch of this non-stop flight to Tashkent underscores our commitment to expanding Goa’s international footprint. With Uzbekistan Airways connecting Goa directly to Uzbekistan, we become their third destination in India, marking a key milestone in our pursuit of greater global connectivity.”

“This new route is more than just a flight—it’s an opportunity for cultural exchange, deepening ties rooted in shared history and mutual interests between our two nations. Together, we’re opening doors for tourism and enriching the experience for every traveller.”

Manohar International Airport continues to play a pivotal role in expanding Goa’s international presence, welcoming visitors from around the world while enhancing travel experience.

GMR Airports Limited (GAL) is a leading global airport platform company with over two decades of experience in designing, constructing, and operating world-class sustainable airports. Under the brand name “GMR AERO”, it offers pioneering aviation solutions in retail, aero services, and real estate. Groupe ADP joined the journey in 2020 as a strategic partner and is now a co-promoter in GAL.

As a platform business, GAL also provides a range of aero services including Duty Free, Retail, F&B, Cargo, Car Parking, O&M, and PMC services. Through its innovative Aerotropolis concept, it develops cutting-edge airport cities giving shape to best-in-class real estate developments in South Asia. GAL operates India’s largest third-party Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility through its subsidiary, GMR Air Cargo and Aerospace Engineering Limited ensuring operational excellence across the Asia Pacific region.

GMR Innovex, a GMR Group entity, is developing and introducing a range of digital solutions to enhance the passenger journey and airport experience. Through GMR Aero Academy and GMR School of Aviation, the company is creating the talent pool necessary to drive the growth of the aviation sector in India (the third largest in the world).

As the largest private airport operator in Asia and the second largest globally, GAL served over 121 million passengers in FY24 with a steadfast commitment to excellence in airport management as reflected in its consistent rankings for services by ACI and Skytrax. With a robust presence in India and Southeast Asia, the company operates key gateways such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Goa and Medan airports, while extending its technical services to Mactan Cebu International Airport in the Philippines. GAL is also developing transformative projects like the greenfield airports in Bhogapuram (Visakhapatnam), India, and Crete, Greece.

GMR Group, the promoter of GAL has a significant presence in Energy, Transportation, Urban Infrastructure, and Sports. Through its CSR arm, GMR Varalakshmi Foundation, GMR supports local communities, reflecting its commitment to improving quality of life by enhancing skills, providing education, and developing healthcare infrastructure and services.

Groupe ADP develops and manages airports, including Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Paris-Orly, and Paris-Le Bourget. In 2023, the group handled through its brand Paris Aéroport 99.7 million passengers at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Paris-Orly, and nearly 336.4 million passengers in airports in France and abroad. Boasting an exceptional geographic location and a major catchment area, the Group is pursuing its strategy of adapting and modernizing its terminal facilities and upgrading the quality of services; the group also intends to develop its retail and real estate businesses. In 2023, group revenue stood at €5,495 million and net income at €631 million!