TravTalk India Online Magazine
The recent launch of direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Bangkok and Singapore has ignited enthusiasm among local travel agents and hoteliers, as it presents a game-changing opportunity for them. The increased connectivity is expected to have a transformative impact on tourism, businesses, and the overall economy of the Indian state.
Janice Alyosius
Odisha is poised to become the next big outbound market in India. The recent introduction of direct flights from Bhubaneswar to Bangkok and Singapore has raised excitement among travel agents and hoteliers in the state. These new flight connections are expected to have a profound impact on tourism, businesses, and the overall economy of Odisha.
Emphasizing the importance of direct flights to Singapore and Bangkok from Odisha, JK
Mohanty, CMD, Swosti Group and Chairman, Hotel & Restaurant Association of Odisha, said, “The enhanced connectivity will not only make it more convenient for Prabasi Odias (Non-Resident Odias) to visit their home state, but also attract foreign tourists and investors.” He added, “The direct flights will give a much-needed boost to Odisha tourism, increase foreign tourist footfall, and contribute to the state’s revenue through foreign exchange earnings.” The availability of direct flights is a game-changer for the travel agents in Odisha. Debjit Dutta, Director & CEO, Impression Tourism Services, also expects a significant impact on incoming tourism to Odisha and the surrounding regions. “With improved connectivity, the destination becomes more accessible to visitors from the Asia Pacific region, opening up new markets and business opportunities. Regional tour operators will benefit greatly from the increased tourism traffic and support provided by the direct flights,” he shared. The flights will also benefit hoteliers and accommodation providers in Odisha. Bjorn Noel DeNiese, Managing Director, Mayfair Elixir, said that their hotels already receive business from Singapore and Bangkok. “With the new flights, the religious destination of Puri is likely to experience an increase in footfall. Additionally, the Buddhist circuit of Odisha will attract more visitors, further boosting the hospitality sector,” he said.
Industry players have already started preparing for the future. Swosti Group is actively working on aggressive marketing plans and organizing roadshows in Singapore and Bangkok to attract inbound tourism to Odisha. They have also developed specialized travel packages and itineraries targeting travellers from Bhubaneswar interested in visiting Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai.DeNiese said that their company has plans to tap into the Southeast Asian markets by working closely with their partners in Bangkok and Singapore.
Debasissh Mahapatraa, Managing Director, K7 Holidays & Travels, acknowledges the proactive efforts of the state and central governments in improving air connectivity. “Our company has already launched group tour packages for Dubai, Singapore, and Thailand. We are ready to handle groups and individuals in the inbound segment and are exploring opportunities for student group exposure visits,” he said, adding that K7 Holidays & Travels is also showcasing new flagship products such as Experience Tourism and Rural Tourism.
