After a four-year suspension, India-China direct flights are back, reopening one of Asia’s most important air corridors. The flights were halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, disrupting tourism, business, and academic exchanges. Their return is being hailed as a turning point that will strengthen ties, support economic growth, and offer travelers more convenience.
Photo by Bornil Amin on Unsplash
India-China Direct Flights Resume After Four Years
The suspension began at the height of the pandemic, when international travel reached a standstill. Before then, airlines such as Air India and China Eastern Airlines flew regular routes between New Delhi, Mumbai, and Beijing.
The decision to see India-China air travel resume follows months of diplomatic talks. Both governments see the restart as a practical step to rebuild trust and cooperation. Officials from both nations have described the move as a practical step toward smoother travel and stronger bilateral engagement.
Tourism, Trade, and Education Benefit From Renewed Connectivity
Photo by Leonard-LH from Getty Images
The return of flights between India and China is expected to fuel tourism by making it easier for travelers to explore cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and scenic regions. Tourism boards on both sides anticipate a surge in visitors, helping accelerate recovery in the post-pandemic era.
For business travelers, India-China flight connectivity makes a big difference. Direct flights cut costs and allow executives to attend meetings and trade fairs with ease. The education sector is also set to benefit, with students, researchers, and academics able to participate more easily in exchange programs and conferences.
These changes signal a broader effort to deepen people-to-people connections and economic cooperation.
Airlines Expand Routes and Offer Competitive Fares
Airlines like Air India and China Eastern are preparing to roll out new schedules. Other carriers are likely to follow, creating more options for travelers. Increased competition could drive down fares and create more flexible travel options. Industry experts expect airlines to launch discounts and special offers to attract passengers.
Official airline websites will provide the latest information on tickets, schedules, and entry rules. Visa requirements and health checks remain important, so passengers should plan ahead.
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*Banner photo by Dmitry Rukhlenko from Canva
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