Varanasi became the first city to be integrated into the Easy Connect flights model. The initiative enables international passengers to complete immigration and baggage formalities before reaching Delhi, ensuring smoother onward international travel. The programme is expected to reduce turnaround times and strengthen India's aviation connectivity. Officials say the move supports tourism growth and improves passenger convenience across the national network. Varanasi's inclusion aligns with broader efforts to improve airport services, expand international routes, and provide faster, more seamless travel experiences for visitors to India.
City added: Varanasi to Easy Connect flights model.
Pre-clearance for immigration and baggage before Delhi stopover.
Aims to shorten travel times and enhance connectivity.
Supports tourism growth and passenger convenience.
Fits into broader aviation connectivity improvement plans.
May 03, 2026
Texas marks National Travel and Tourism Week 2026
Texas is observing National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) 2026 with a series of events coordinated by Travel Texas, spanning May 3 to May 9, 2026. Governor Greg Abbott proclaimed the week to recognise travel’s vital role in supporting jobs, businesses, and communities across the state. Themed as Postmarked: Essential, the celebration highlights the industry’s contributions to local economies and culture. Since the program’s inception in 1983, NTTW has emphasised how travel connects people and drives growth. The 2026 events aim to showcase Texas destinations and the broader economic impact of tourism on the state.
NTTW 2026 runs May 3–9, organized by Travel Texas.
Governor Abbott proclaimed the week, emphasising travel’s economic role.
Theme: Postmarked: Essential.
NTTW highlights travel’s impact on jobs, businesses, and communities.
Apr 15, 2026
Hanoi tourism hub grows as VITM 2026 showcases transformation and innovation
The Vietnam International Travel Mart (VITM) 2026 is underway in central Hanoi, marking a milestone for Vietnam's tourism sector. The fair marks a milestone for Vietnam’s tourism sector, with thousands of visitors each day seeking consultations, on-site bookings, and industry networking. Now in its 15th edition, VITM 2026 is bigger and more dynamic, drawing participants from 31 Vietnamese provinces and cities and 20 foreign countries and territories. About 400 booths host more than 600 organizations and businesses. International exhibitors make up around 15 percent of participants, reflecting growing global engagement with Vietnam's travel market. The event highlights industry transformation and innovation shaping Vietnam’s evolving tourism landscape.
VITM 2026 held in Hanoi, Vietnam
15th edition; 31 Vietnamese provinces; 20 countries
~400 booths; ~600 organizations
International exhibitors ~15%
Aurangabad in Gorakhpur to be developed as a Special Tourist Village
Gorakhpur’s Aurangabad village, renowned for its terracotta craft, is slated to become a Special Tourist Village under a state government initiative. Officials say the project, valued at about Rs 1 crore, is being implemented by Construction and Design Services (C&DS). The first instalment of Rs 67 lakh has already been released. Plans include a gate complex, electrical infrastructure and updated signage to improve the visitor experience. The initiative links with the One District One Product scheme promoted by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath to showcase terracotta craft to tourists and integrate traditional artistry with broader tourism.
Aurangabad village in Gorakhpur district to be developed as Special Tourist Village.
Project worth approximately Rs 1 crore; first instalment Rs 67 lakh released.
Implementation by Construction and Design Services (C&DS).
Development includes gate complex, infrastructure upgrades and signage.
Part of One District One Product scheme to promote terracotta crafts.
Apr 06, 2026
Telangana to launch heli-tourism on Hyderabad–Somasila–Srisailam circuit from April 9
Telangana Tourism and Culture Minister Jupally Krishna Rao announced that helicopter tourism will commence on the Hyderabad–Somasila–Srisailam circuit from 9 April 2026. The service is being developed in partnership with private aviation agencies and will offer tourists panoramic views of the Krishna river and the Nallamala forests while linking major pilgrimage sites with eco-tourism destinations. Two packages are available: a one-day tour and a two-day itinerary, with departures centered around Hyderabad and Somasila/Srisailam corridors. Officials say the project will strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve connectivity to key attractions, and generate employment in the sector. The initiative aligns with Telangana’s broader strategy to diversify and enhance immersive travel experiences for visitors.
Launch date: 9 April 2026
Route: Hyderabad–Somasila–Srisailam
Packages: 1-day and 2-day
Partner: private aviation agencies
Aim: boost tourism infrastructure and connectivity