TTU: China confirmed that it is discussing with India the resumption of direct flights between the two countries. These flights were suspended for five years following the COVID-19 pandemic and border tensions. Both sides are now exploring options to restore air connectivity.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China has been in regular communication with India to promote the early restart of flights. The development comes amid speculation that an official announcement may happen during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin on August 31–September 1.
China India Direct Flights Likely to Restart Soon
Reports suggest that airlines in both countries have been asked to stay ready. Indian Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, recently met senior executives of China Eastern Airlines. They discussed opportunities in the civil aviation and hospitality sectors.
Before the suspension, China Eastern Airlines and Air China operated daily flights to Indian cities such as Delhi. These services stopped due to the pandemic and the military standoff in Eastern Ladakh.
Lin Jian noted that resuming China India direct flights would make travel easier for people in both countries. He highlighted that India and China have a combined population of over 2.8 billion, and direct connectivity will boost exchanges, business cooperation, and tourism.
Efforts to Normalize Bilateral Relations
India and China are gradually working to restore normal ties. High-level interactions have increased since Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping agreed to revive dialogue mechanisms during their meeting in Kazan, Russia.
Lin said both sides are ready to act on agreements made by their leaders. The aim is to maintain high-level contacts, build political trust, and manage differences responsibly. Discussions are also taking place through multilateral forums such as the SCO.
There are reports that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi may visit India soon to attend Special Representatives talks. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met Wang in China last December to discuss boundary issues.
China India Direct Flights to Boost Travel and Trade
Restoring direct flights will benefit business travelers, students, and tourists. Airlines will be able to re-establish routes that previously supported trade and people-to-people exchanges. Travel companies in Shanghai have shown strong interest in opportunities that would follow the resumption of flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When were China India direct flights suspended?
They were suspended in early 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and border tensions.
2. Which airlines may restart flights?
China Eastern Airlines and Air China are expected to resume services. Indian carriers may also consider operating routes once agreements are finalized.
3. Will flights connect only Delhi and Beijing?
Initially, major hubs such as Delhi, Shanghai, and Beijing are likely. Other cities may be added later based on demand.
4. Will ticket prices be high when flights resume?
Airfares may be higher in the beginning due to limited availability. Prices are expected to stabilize as more flights are added.
5. How will students benefit from these flights?
Direct flights will reduce travel time and costs for Indian students studying in Chinese universities.
6. Is there an exact date for resumption?
No date has been officially confirmed. An announcement may come during or after the SCO summit in Tianjin.
