Archive · 2 Sep 2026
West Bengal Seeks Stronger Direct US Flights to Kolkata
West Bengal wants more direct flights between Kolkata and the United States.
Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh discussed this idea with US Consul General Katherin Giles-Diaz.
He said easier flights could help more American tourists visit the state.
The state also wants tourists to feel safe while traveling.
It plans to create 23 district helplines that work all day and night.
A central helpline will also operate every day of the year.
Ghosh recommended that visitors use the official tourism app to find approved hotels and travel services.
Giles-Diaz suggested adding visa information and services to the app and tourism website.
Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh discussed direct international flights to Kolkata with US Consul General Katherin Giles-Diaz.
West Bengal wants improved air connectivity to attract more American tourists and expand global tourism links.
The state plans 23 district-level 24×7 helplines and one centralized tourism helpline operating year-round.
Ghosh urged American visitors to use the official West Bengal Tourist App and government-registered service providers.
Giles-Diaz suggested adding visa application facilities to the tourism app and Tourism Department website.
- Who
- West Bengal Tourism Minister Shankar Ghosh, US Consul General Katherin Giles-Diaz and US Consular Section Chief Noah Hogan.
- What
- They discussed stronger direct international flight connectivity to Kolkata, tourism cooperation, tourist safety and visa-related services.
- When
- Wednesday; the articles do not provide a specific date.
- Where
- At the New Secretariat Building in Kolkata, West Bengal.
- Why
- West Bengal wants to attract more American tourists, improve international tourism links and provide safer, more reliable services for visitors.
- Main proposal
- Pursue direct international flights connecting Kolkata with the United States.
- Tourism goal
- Attract more American tourists and promote West Bengal as an international destination.
- Planned helplines
- Twenty-three district-level helplines operating 24×7.
- Central support
- A centralized state tourism helpline operating 365 days a year.
- Official booking guidance
- Tourists will be encouraged to use the West Bengal Tourist App to book government-registered providers.
- Visa-services suggestion
- The US consul general proposed adding visa application-related facilities to the tourism app and Tourism Department website.