India and China have agreed to resume direct passenger flights after a five-year suspension, marking a significant step in restoring bilateral travel and economic ties.
The decision comes after prolonged negotiations between the two governments, with both sides viewing the move as a boost for trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Direct flights between the two countries were halted in 2020 at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, but tensions along the disputed border further delayed their resumption.
According to aviation officials, the first phase will see limited weekly services between major cities such as New Delhi, Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou, with the possibility of expanding to additional routes in the coming months. Both Indian and Chinese carriers are expected to participate, pending final regulatory approvals.
The restart of flights is expected to benefit businesses, particularly in the pharmaceutical, technology, and manufacturing sectors, where India and China are major trade partners. It will also provide a more convenient travel option for students, professionals, and tourists who previously had to rely on connecting flights through third countries.
Analysts say the move could signal a cautious thaw in diplomatic relations, although key political and security issues remain unresolved. Aviation experts also note that airlines will need to carefully assess demand and pricing strategies, given the changing dynamics of the post-pandemic travel market.
If successful, the resumption of direct air connectivity could pave the way for deeper economic engagement and potentially smoother diplomatic dialogue between the two Asian giants.
