India and China to Resume Direct Flights After 5 Years: A Step Towards Normalizing Bilateral Relations
Background: A Five-Year Hiatus
The suspension of direct flights between India and China dates back to early 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic led to a global shutdown of international travel, affecting air connectivity worldwide. However, even as countries began to reopen their borders, the resumption of direct flights between India and China remained stalled due to escalating border tensions, particularly following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, which resulted in casualties on both sides.
Despite these challenges, diplomatic channels remained open, and both nations engaged in dialogue to address their differences and explore avenues for cooperation.
Diplomatic Engagements Paving the Way
The breakthrough came in late 2025, following a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at de-escalating tensions and fostering mutual trust. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to China in September 2025 marked a pivotal moment in the bilateral relationship. This visit, his first to China in seven years, was part of efforts to attend a regional security forum and engage in high-level discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
During the visit, both leaders emphasized the importance of viewing each other as development partners rather than rivals. They explored ways to bolster trade ties amidst global economic uncertainties and addressed concerns related to the substantial trade imbalance between the two countries, which stood at approximately $99.2 billion at the time.
Resumption of Air Connectivity
Following the diplomatic breakthrough, both governments agreed to resume direct flights between designated cities. India's Ministry of External Affairs announced that flights would recommence by late October 2025, pending decisions by commercial carriers.
Indigo, India's largest airline, took the lead by announcing the launch of daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, starting October 26, 2025. This route marks the first direct air connectivity between India and China since the suspension. The airline also expressed plans to introduce direct flights between Delhi and Guangzhou, pending regulatory approvals.
Tata Group's flagship carrier, Air India, is reportedly planning to launch direct flights between Delhi and Shanghai before the end of the year, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Geopolitical Implications
The resumption of direct flights holds significant geopolitical implications. It reflects a mutual recognition of the importance of stable and cooperative relations between two of Asia's largest economies. The move is seen as a step towards rebuilding trust and fostering a more predictable and constructive bilateral relationship.
Analysts view this development as a response to the shifting dynamics in the global order, particularly in the context of the United States' foreign policy under President Donald Trump. The Trump administration's aggressive trade policies and stiff tariffs have prompted countries worldwide to reassess their economic strategies and alliances. In this context, India and China appear to be seeking to strengthen their economic and diplomatic ties to ensure regional stability and economic growth.
Economic and Trade Prospects
The resumption of direct flights is expected to have a positive impact on trade and economic relations between India and China. Direct air connectivity will facilitate smoother and more efficient movement of goods and people, benefiting businesses and consumers in both countries.
For Indian exporters, particularly those in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electronics, improved air connectivity with China can open up new markets and reduce logistics costs. Similarly, Chinese companies looking to expand their presence in India will find it easier to establish and maintain business operations.
Tourism, which has been significantly affected by the suspension of flights, is also poised for revival. The resumption of direct flights will make travel between the two countries more convenient, potentially boosting tourism-related revenues and fostering people-to-people exchanges.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive developments, several challenges remain. The border dispute, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), continues to be a sensitive issue. While both countries have expressed a commitment to peace and stability, incidents along the border could strain relations and impact the broader bilateral agenda.
Additionally, domestic political considerations in both countries could influence the trajectory of their relationship. Public opinion, economic interests, and national security concerns will play crucial roles in shaping future engagements.
Conclusion
The resumption of direct flights between India and China after five years marks a significant milestone in the normalization of bilateral relations. It reflects a shared commitment to overcoming past differences and building a cooperative and mutually beneficial partnership. While challenges remain, the steps taken thus far indicate a positive direction towards sustained peace and collaboration in the region.
As both nations continue to navigate the complexities of their relationship, the resumption of air connectivity serves as a hopeful symbol of the potential for diplomacy and dialogue to bridge divides and foster a more interconnected world.
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