India and China to Resume Direct Flights After Five Years

In a historic move to strengthen diplomatic ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the resumption of direct commercial flights between India and China after a hiatus of more than five years. The announcement was made during his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin. The two leaders emphasized cooperation over rivalry, projecting a new chapter in bilateral relations.

Modi confirms resumption of direct flights between India and China (PMO) | LiveMint

From Rivalry to Partnership

The revival of direct air connectivity reflects a broader effort to heal strained ties between the two nations. Relations had soured following the violent border clashes in Ladakh’s Galwan Valley in 2020 and the suspension of flights due to the COVID-19 pandemic. President Xi noted that India and China should view each other as “partners, not rivals,” while Prime Minister Modi reiterated that the welfare of nearly 2.8 billion people depends on mutual trust, respect, and sensitivity. This recalibration signals a willingness on both sides to move away from hostility and focus on shared interests.

Airlines and Routes Returning to the Skies

Though an exact launch date is yet to be revealed, reports indicate that flights could resume as early as the upcoming winter season. Airlines such as IndiGo and Air India are preparing to restart services to major Chinese hubs including Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. On the Chinese side, carriers like Air China, China Eastern, and China Southern are expected to participate in re-establishing connectivity. Before the suspension, routes such as Delhi–Shanghai, Mumbai–Shanghai, and Delhi–Guangzhou were among the busiest, and their revival is likely to be prioritized.

A Boost to Travel, Trade, and Pilgrimage

The return of direct flights carries immense benefits beyond tourism. The move is expected to ease business travel, support smoother trade operations, and reduce costs for companies dependent on cross-border cooperation. The decision also comes as a relief to thousands of pilgrims and spiritual travelers, especially those undertaking the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, which had been disrupted by the absence of direct links. Cultural exchanges, student mobility, and people-to-people ties are also set to receive a fresh push.

Geopolitical and Economic Implications

The timing of this announcement reflects shifting geopolitical dynamics. As global trade faces disruptions and Western markets remain volatile, both India and China appear keen to explore pragmatic cooperation. Reconnecting their skies not only improves economic integration but also signals to the world that Asia’s two largest economies are willing to work together despite lingering differences on the border.

Conclusion

The resumption of direct flights between India and China marks more than just a restoration of air travel; it is a symbolic gesture of reconciliation and forward-looking diplomacy. While challenges remain, particularly regarding border disputes and geopolitical competition, this step demonstrates that constructive engagement is possible when both sides recognize the mutual benefits of cooperation. For travelers, businesses, and policymakers alike, this development offers hope of a new era of connectivity and partnership between the two nations.

(Sources: LiveMint, NDTV, Hindustan Times)