Panaji: As jet fuel makes up a massive portion of an airline’s total operating expenses — often 50% or more during high-price periods — cutting the tax rate by 8% directly relieves financial pressure on carriers refuelling in the state, said the Travel and Tourism Association (TTAG), welcoming Goa govt’s decision.Jack Sukhija, TTAG president, said being a premier domestic and international holiday destination, Goa relies heavily on accessible air travel. “Reducing fuel burdens helps make flying to the state more economically viable, supporting hotels, resorts, tour operators, and local businesses,” Sukhija said.He said major airlines have noted that lower fuel overheads can encourage carriers to introduce additional flight frequencies, open new routes, or maintain existing services to Goa’s airports.While the state and airlines anticipate long-term structural benefits for the travel ecosystem, airlines have not immediately signalled a direct drop in ticket prices, as fares are influenced by broader global crude oil volatility and advance-booking structures, he said.
