A Historic Return to the Skies
In a landmark decision, India and China will restart direct flights by late October 2025, ending a suspension that has lasted more than five years. The move comes after prolonged diplomatic talks and reflects a cautiously positive turn in bilateral relations.
- A Historic Return to the Skies
- Why Were Flights Suspended for So Long?
- What This Means for Travelers and Businesses
- 1. Relief for Indian Students in China
- 2. Families Reuniting After Years
- 3. Boost for Trade and Business
- 4. A Diplomatic Signal
- Likely Routes to Be Restarted First
- Impact on Airfares and Airlines
- FAQs on India–China Direct Flights
- Final Thoughts
For students, businesses, and families who have struggled with indirect routes, costly tickets, and long layovers, this decision is nothing short of life-changing.
Why Were Flights Suspended for So Long?
Direct flights between India and China were halted in early 2020, officially due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. However, rising border tensions further complicated efforts to restore connectivity.
This prolonged suspension forced thousands of Indian students, especially in Chinese universities, to rely on expensive third-country transit routes through places like Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong.
What This Means for Travelers and Businesses
1. Relief for Indian Students in China
More than 20,000 Indian students are currently studying in Chinese universities, particularly in medical fields. Direct flights will make their travel far smoother, safer, and more affordable.
2. Families Reuniting After Years
Families separated by long travel hurdles will finally get a chance to reconnect without the stress of multiple transits.
3. Boost for Trade and Business
With India and China being two of Asia’s biggest economies, business travelers and entrepreneurs stand to gain from easier, faster, and more predictable flight options.
4. A Diplomatic Signal
The resumption of direct flights is not just a matter of aviation — it’s also a symbol of cautious cooperation between two geopolitical heavyweights.
Likely Routes to Be Restarted First
While the official list of routes is yet to be confirmed, experts suggest the first direct flights will likely connect:
Delhi ↔ Beijing
Mumbai ↔ Shanghai
Possible extensions later to Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Kolkata
Impact on Airfares and Airlines
A key benefit of restarting flights will be the drop in ticket prices. Currently, Indian travelers to China face inflated costs due to roundabout routes. Direct flights are expected to bring down fares significantly while boosting airline revenues.
Airlines such as Air India, China Eastern, and Air China are expected to operate these revived routes.
FAQs on India–China Direct Flights
Q1: When will direct flights officially resume?
👉 By late October 2025, according to both governments.
Q2: Which passengers benefit the most?
👉 Indian students in China, business travelers, and families.
Q3: Why did it take so long to restart flights?
👉 COVID-19 restrictions, followed by prolonged diplomatic tensions, delayed the process.
Q4: Will airfares come down immediately?
👉 Yes, direct flights are expected to significantly reduce ticket costs compared to current transit routes.
Q5: Is this a sign of improved India–China ties?
👉 While differences remain, the resumption of flights signals a willingness to cooperate on people-to-people exchanges.
Final Thoughts
The resumption of India–China direct flights after more than five years is more than a travel update — it’s a powerful reminder of human connection, economic necessity, and cautious diplomacy.
For students, families, and businesses, the reopening of skies between the two Asian giants will mark the beginning of a new chapter of mobility and opportunity.
