The long-awaited India China Direct Flights Resumption could become a reality as early as next month, marking a significant step toward improving political and economic ties between the two Asian giants.
According to a Bloomberg report, Indian carriers have been instructed to be prepared to operate direct flights to China at short notice, with an official announcement expected during the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China.
1. When Could India China Direct Flights Resume?
If this plan moves forward, it would officially end the suspension on direct passenger services between India and China that has been in place since the Covid-19 pandemic began.
Travelers have so far been forced to take longer routes via Hong Kong, Singapore, or other hubs, adding time and cost to their journeys.
2. Why Were India China Direct Flights Suspended?
The halt in direct flights began during the pandemic but was prolonged due to worsening diplomatic relations after the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes in Ladakh.
- June 2020: 20 Indian soldiers were killed during a violent face-off with Chinese troops.
- China confirmed casualties but did not release official numbers.
This standoff created one of the worst diplomatic lows between the two nations in recent history.
3. Why Is the India China Direct Flights Resumption Happening Now?
Recent months have seen small but notable signs of thaw in bilateral relations:
- India eased tourist visa restrictions for Chinese nationals.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin on August 31.
- A potential meeting between Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping could further strengthen diplomatic ties.
The flights resumption is seen as part of this broader effort to normalize relations.
4. Which Airlines Could Operate India China Direct Flights?
Before the suspension, both Indian and Chinese carriers operated popular routes connecting major cities.
- Indian carriers: Air India, IndiGo.
- Chinese carriers: Air China, China Southern, China Eastern.
The upcoming resumption could see Air India and IndiGo take the lead in restarting services.
5. Which Airlines Could Operate India China Direct Flights?
Before the suspension, both Indian and Chinese carriers operated popular routes connecting major cities.
- Indian carriers: Air India, IndiGo.
- Chinese carriers: Air China, China Southern, China Eastern.
The upcoming resumption could see Air India and IndiGo take the lead in restarting services.
What This Means for Travelers and Trade
The India China Direct Flights Resumption will:
- Cut travel times between major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, and Beijing.
- Boost tourism and student travel between both nations.
- Potentially aid business ties in manufacturing, technology, and trade sectors.