In a significant step towards improving diplomatic and economic ties, India and China have officially agreed to restart direct passenger flights after more than four years.
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, direct air connectivity between the two Asian giants will resume from October 26, 2025, following months of technical-level discussions between aviation authorities.
The breakthrough announcement comes on the heels of a high-level meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit. The talks focused on restoring connectivity, revising the Air Services Agreement, and building confidence in bilateral exchanges.
Under the revised arrangement, designated airlines from both nations will be permitted to operate direct flights on mutually agreed routes. These services will commence with the upcoming winter schedule, subject to meeting operational and commercial requirements. Officials highlighted that this initiative would not only reconnect two of the world’s largest populations but also create fresh avenues for cooperation in business, tourism, and education.
IndiGo Announces First Service
India’s largest airline, IndiGo, has confirmed the resumption of its services to mainland China. Starting October 26, 2025, IndiGo will operate daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou using its Airbus A320neo aircraft. The carrier stated that the restored route will significantly benefit traders, entrepreneurs, and students, while also promoting tourism and cultural exchanges.
The return of direct flights is expected to re-establish disrupted supply chains, encourage cross-border trade, and provide greater convenience for business travellers. Tourism experts have also welcomed the move, noting that increased connectivity will help revive the flow of Chinese tourists to India and vice versa.
A Step Towards Normalization
Direct air links between India and China were suspended in early 2020 due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened border tensions. For over four years, the absence of direct connectivity hampered people-to-people interactions, disrupted academic exchanges, and slowed down bilateral business opportunities.
Analysts view the latest decision as a practical and confidence-building measure aimed at stabilizing ties between the two neighbours. Experts believe that restoring flights could pave the way for incremental progress in economic relations, especially at a time when India is also navigating negotiations with the United States amid trade tariff challenges.
The resumption of flights is being seen as a symbolic yet concrete step towards normalizing bilateral relations. While challenges remain, policymakers on both sides hope that improved connectivity will enhance cooperation, rebuild trust, and strengthen cultural bonds.
With direct flights back on the schedule, India and China are set to witness a new chapter of engagement, reinforcing the importance of connectivity in fostering economic growth and diplomatic goodwill.
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