After Half a Decade, India-China Direct Flights Are Back—Unlocking New Horizons

India and China are set to restart direct passenger flights by late October 2025, ending a suspension of more than five years that began amid the Covid-19 pandemic and border tensions. This move is a significant step in the gradual normalization of ties between the two nations.

Key Developments

Direct flights between selected cities in India and China will resume from October 26, 2025, aligning with the winter schedule, pending operational and commercial clearances.

IndiGo announced it will launch daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou from October 26, followed by direct services between Delhi and Guangzhou.

The decision follows sustained technical-level talks and the revision of the Air Services Agreement between the civil aviation authorities of both countries.

Implications for Bilateral Relations

The resumption reflects a cautious thaw after a five-year diplomatic freeze triggered by the 2020 border clash and its aftermath.

It aims to facilitate easier travel for business, tourism, and people-to-people contacts, fostering economic and cultural exchanges.

The move comes on the heels of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to China, where both leaders affirmed they are development partners, not rivals, and discussed trade and stability concerns, especially over the widening trade deficit and border peace.

Context and Future Outlook

Direct air connectivity was halted due to Covid-19 and geopolitical tensions, forcing passengers to rely on indirect routes.

China remains India’s largest trading partner despite the freeze, with bilateral trade surpassing $130 billion and a trade deficit nearing $99.2 billion for India.

Restarting flights represents a strategic step to enhance cooperation and normalize exchanges amid shifting global trade and geopolitical dynamics.

Sources: Ministry of External Affairs, IndiGo, Reuters, India Today, Economic Times, Hindustan Times, NDTV, The New Indian Express, Business Standard, Asia Financial News, US News