IndiGo has launched a daily non-stop flight between Kolkata and Guangzhou, marking the return of direct air connectivity between India and China after several years. The new route brings faster travel, smoother cargo movement, and renewed people-to-people connections.
The Kolkata–Guangzhou service represents a key milestone in regional aviation. It supports economic cooperation and opens opportunities for business, education, and tourism between two of Asia’s largest economies.
Flight Schedule and Details
Starting October 26, 2025, IndiGo operates the following daily schedule:
| Route | Flight No. | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kolkata → Guangzhou | 6E 1703 | 22:00 | 04:05 (+1) |
| Guangzhou → Kolkata | 6E 1704 | 05:35 | 07:50 |
All times are local. The route is operated with an Airbus A320, known for efficiency and comfort.
Strengthening Business and Trade Relations
Guangzhou is one of China’s top industrial and export centres. The new direct flight offers Indian businesses a quicker connection to suppliers, manufacturers, and investors. This link also supports cargo traffic, helping traders move goods with reduced transit time.
Indian exporters and MSMEs can now access China’s southern markets with ease. The route enhances logistics reliability and supports the fast-growing bilateral trade between the two countries.
Boost to Tourism and Cultural Exchange
Beyond commerce, the Kolkata–Guangzhou route opens new travel opportunities. Chinese visitors can now reach eastern India directly, exploring Kolkata’s heritage, culture, and cuisine. Indian travellers gain a seamless path to Guangzhou’s vibrant urban and cultural attractions.
This revival of air links promotes tourism, education, and healthcare travel. It also encourages academic partnerships and student exchanges between Indian and Chinese universities.
IndiGo’s Growing International Network
This launch aligns with IndiGo’s broader international expansion strategy. The airline will soon introduce a second China route — Delhi to Guangzhou — in late 2025. Together, these connections position IndiGo as a major regional carrier linking India with East and Southeast Asia.
IndiGo’s expanding network strengthens India’s aviation presence on the global stage. The airline continues to focus on reliability, affordability, and ease of access for international travellers.
CEO’s Vision for Regional Connectivity
Pieter Elbers, IndiGo’s CEO, called the new route a major step in bridging the two economies.
“We are proud to be the first Indian carrier resuming daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou,” he said. “This connection strengthens business, tourism, and education ties while supporting small and medium enterprises across both countries.”
The airline’s goal remains to “give wings to the nation, and increasingly to the world,” reflecting its ambition to connect India to major global hubs.
Economic and Strategic Significance
The flight launch arrives at a crucial time for India-China relations. Both nations are re-engaging in trade and investment dialogues, and the aviation link complements these efforts. Efficient air connectivity supports mutual growth, smoother supply chains, and regional cooperation.
The service also revives air freight between eastern India and southern China — a sector that has seen strong recovery post-pandemic. Faster cargo movement could help Indian exporters regain competitiveness in key sectors such as textiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
Outlook: Rising Demand and New Possibilities
The return of direct flights reflects growing travel demand. As business, education, and tourism rebound, more travellers are expected to use this route. The convenience of a non-stop connection makes it attractive for both short-term and long-term visits.
Experts anticipate rising passenger numbers and trade volumes in the coming months. With the addition of Delhi–Guangzhou service, IndiGo will play a central role in shaping future India-China connectivity.
A Step Toward Stronger Regional Ties
IndiGo’s daily Kolkata–Guangzhou flight is more than just a route—it’s a symbol of renewed engagement between India and China. The connection promotes tourism, boosts bilateral trade, and fosters understanding between two diverse cultures.
As aviation links strengthen, travellers from both nations gain easier access to opportunities that drive economic growth and mutual cooperation. IndiGo’s initiative marks a confident move toward closer ties and smoother skies across Asia.
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