China and India are preparing to resume direct passenger flights after a five-year suspension, a development that signals a thaw in relations and a renewed focus on cooperation. The announcement is expected at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025, underscoring the importance of tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two largest economies in Asia.
Direct flights between the two nations had been suspended since 2020, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and heightened border tensions in Eastern Ladakh. The absence of air links not only restricted tourism but also disrupted business exchanges, student travel, and people-to-people connectivity.
The resumption of flights is being hailed as a breakthrough that will restore confidence in bilateral relations and ease travel for millions of citizens across both countries.
China Eastern Airlines Takes the Lead
Momentum for the revival gained pace after Pratik Mathur, Indian Consul General in Shanghai, held talks with senior executives of China Eastern Airlines. The airline, one of China’s largest carriers, is expected to play a key role in re-establishing routes connecting major Indian cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru with Chinese hubs like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
During the meeting, Shen Jinsong, Senior General Manager for Global Operations at China Eastern Airlines, highlighted the importance of restoring aviation links not just for tourism but also for business and hospitality sectors. Local tourism operators in Shanghai have already expressed optimism, viewing the resumption of flights as an opportunity to strengthen cross-border partnerships.
Tourism Industry Poised for Growth
Before the suspension, Air China and China Eastern Airlines operated several daily flights connecting New Delhi with Beijing and Shanghai. These routes were popular among tourists, students, and business travelers.
With over 2.8 billion people combined, India and China represent one of the largest potential markets for cross-border travel. The reopening of direct flights is expected to:
- Boost leisure tourism, enabling travelers to explore historic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China and India’s Taj Mahal with greater convenience.
- Facilitate business travel, allowing entrepreneurs and investors to strengthen trade links in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
- Revive educational exchanges, particularly for Indian students enrolled in Chinese universities and Chinese students exploring opportunities in India.
According to data from the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), resuming aviation connectivity can drive bilateral tourism growth by up to 30% within the first year of restoration.
A Step Toward Normalization
The revival of flights comes after a series of high-level diplomatic engagements. In December 2024, India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, building on discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping during the BRICS+ summit in Kazan, Russia.
Both sides agreed to re-establish dialogue mechanisms, including talks on trade, cultural cooperation, and tourism. Analysts believe that reopening air routes reflects a strategic intent to normalize relations while managing ongoing border disputes.
Strategic Importance for the Global South
China and India are not only neighbors but also key leaders in the Global South, a coalition of developing economies shaping the future of international diplomacy. Their cooperation is critical for advancing initiatives in sustainable development, digital innovation, and regional security.
Restoring direct flights is expected to support regional connectivity under frameworks like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and India’s Act East Policy, making travel smoother for businesses and tourists alike.
What Passengers Can Expect
While the final schedule has not yet been released, industry insiders suggest that the initial focus will be on flagship routes:
- New Delhi – Beijing
- New Delhi – Shanghai
- Mumbai – Guangzhou
Additional routes, including seasonal flights for tourism and student travel, may be added depending on demand.
Travel Requirements:
- Passengers must ensure they meet visa requirements for both countries.
- Health declarations, though simplified since COVID-19, may still be necessary.
- Direct flights are expected to cut travel time by 5–7 hours compared to indirect routes through Southeast Asia or the Middle East.
Looking Ahead
The India-China flight resumption in 2025 represents more than just aviation—it is a signal of cautious optimism in bilateral ties. For travelers, it means easier access to two of the world’s richest cultural and economic destinations. For businesses, it provides renewed opportunities for trade and investment. And for the tourism industry, it opens doors to significant growth after years of setbacks.
With the official announcement expected at the SCO Summit, travelers should prepare to see tickets go on sale in the coming months. As global tourism continues to rebound, the revival of India-China direct flights could become one of the most significant aviation milestones of 2025.
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