Goa tourism welcomes first Russian charter flight to state

The first Russian charter flight ‘Anex Tour’, a new charter flight by Thomas Cook, arrived at Dabolim airport, Goa on Sunday, where the passengers were welcomed by Victor Albuquerque, Consul of Russia in Goa,  Dabolim Airport director, M Suresh and deputy director, Department of Tourism, Pamela Mascarenhas.

A traditional reception with a Goan brass band was organised by Goa Tourism to welcome the passengers and included greeting with roses as the tourists entered the airport.

Consul of Russia in Goa, Victor Albuquerque said, ‘We welcome the first Russian charter flight to Goa and expect 600-700 Russian flights to Goa this season. Most of the Russian tourists that arrived today are  families and couples. We have seen a tremendous improvement in the quality of tourists coming to Goa.’

Dabolim airport director, M Suresh Senior said, ‘The charter flight consists of 235 passengers from Russia. We are expecting 1,400 flights this tourist season 2013-14. To cater to the growing numbers of arrivals, we have increased the number of custom officers so that immigration facility is made easier.’