New Delhi: India and China are set to restart direct passenger flights between selected cities later this month, ending a five-year suspension that began with the Covid-19 pandemic and was prolonged by military tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Officials said the development is a significant step toward restoring normal bilateral exchanges between the two neighbours.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the decision follows months of technical negotiations between the civil aviation authorities of both countries. The matter was discussed in several rounds of talks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Kazan, Russia, in October 2024.
“Direct air services connecting designated points in India and China can resume by late October 2025, in line with the winter schedule, subject to commercial decisions by airlines and operational clearances,” the MEA said in a statement.
Part of Normalisation Efforts
Diplomatic sources described the move as part of New Delhi’s strategy for the “gradual normalisation” of ties with Beijing. Relations plunged to their lowest point in six decades after the deadly border clashes in 2020. Both sides had maintained nearly 50,000 troops each in Ladakh until an agreement last year paved the way for disengagement at the last two friction points, Demchok and Depsang.
Officials said resuming flights was one of Beijing’s primary demands during recent discussions, reflecting China’s emphasis on reviving economic and people-to-people exchanges.
The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry also welcomed the move in a social media post, noting that the resumption “will greatly enhance air connectivity, support people-to-people exchanges, and contribute to strengthening economic collaboration.”
IndiGo Among First Carriers
Private carrier IndiGo is expected to be the first Indian airline to relaunch services. In a statement on Thursday, the airline said it will begin daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou starting October 26. Subject to regulatory approvals, it also plans to add a Delhi–Guangzhou route shortly thereafter.
IndiGo said the services will be operated using Airbus A320neo aircraft. The airline, which flew to several Chinese destinations before 2020, has retained many of the necessary systems and procedures for operating in the Chinese market.
“We are proud to be among the first carriers to restore direct connectivity between India and China,” said IndiGo’s CEO Pieter Elbers. “This will once again enable the smooth movement of people, goods, and ideas, while strengthening relations between two of the world’s most populous nations and fastest-growing economies.”
On the Chinese side, state-run China Eastern is expected to resume flights soon, people familiar with the matter said. Prior to the suspension, direct connectivity was operated by Air India, IndiGo, Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern.
Trade and Travel Boost
Business communities in both countries have long called for the resumption of flights, pointing out that the absence of direct services forced travellers to take expensive detours via third countries such as Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai. This not only raised costs but also discouraged short-term business visits.
Analysts say the restoration of air links will help support the revival of trade between Asia’s two largest economies after years of strained ties. India’s imports from China remain significant, particularly in electronics, machinery, and active pharmaceutical ingredients, while Indian exporters have been seeking greater access to the Chinese market.
“Direct flights will play a key role in restoring business confidence and reviving bilateral trade momentum,” said a senior executive of a Delhi-based trade body. “Face-to-face meetings and faster logistics are crucial for rebuilding trust.”
A Delicate Balancing Act
Despite the progress, officials cautioned that the resumption of flights should not be read as a full reset in ties. Political and security differences remain, especially regarding the unresolved boundary dispute. However, diplomats argue that steps like air connectivity help create a more conducive environment for dialogue.
Strategic affairs experts also see the decision as pragmatic. “Both sides have realised that freezing all exchanges only prolongs hostility,” said Prof. R. Sharma, an international relations analyst. “Restoring people-to-people contacts through flights is a low-risk measure that can pave the way for broader cooperation.”
Looking Ahead
For ordinary travellers, the return of direct flights is expected to reduce travel time by several hours and cut expenses significantly. Students, tourists, and professionals who had to rely on multi-stop routes will benefit the most.
The MEA emphasised that the agreement is contingent on the operational readiness of airlines and airport authorities. The final schedule of services will be shaped by market demand, regulatory approvals, and commercial considerations.
With flights poised to restart later this month, the development marks one of the most visible signs of easing tensions since 2020. While challenges in the relationship persist, aviation links are expected to serve as a bridge for closer contact between societies, businesses, and governments on both sides.
