After nearly five years of suspension, direct flights between India and China are finally set to resume. This development marks a significant step in the gradual restoration of bilateral relations that were severely strained by a deadly border clash in 2020.
The return of air connectivity is expected to strengthen diplomatic engagement, encourage tourism, and boost economic exchanges. Starting October 26, Indian low-cost airline IndiGo will relaunch its route between Kolkata and Guangzhou. The move follows extended talks and recent gestures by both nations aimed at repairing ties.
Why Were Flights Suspended?
India and China halted direct flights in 2020 after a violent confrontation along their disputed Himalayan border. The Galwan Valley clash resulted in the deaths of at least 20 Indian soldiers and four Chinese troops. It was the first fatal border incident in decades and triggered a freeze in diplomatic and logistical exchanges.
Following the incident, both nations suspended several agreements, and direct air routes were among the casualties. However, recent months have seen quiet but consistent efforts to restore dialogue and reduce tensions. Read another article on Philippine mayor arrest
What Steps Have Been Taken to Restore Relations?
Over the past year, both governments have made visible efforts to normalize their strained relationship. High-level military and diplomatic talks have taken place to manage border tensions. In October 2024, the two sides reached an agreement on patrolling protocols along the disputed frontier to reduce conflict risks.
Additionally, China recently allowed Indian pilgrims to visit religious sites in the Tibet Autonomous Region. In return, India resumed visa processing for Chinese tourists. These moves signal a mutual desire to move beyond confrontation.
How Will This Impact Travel and Trade?
The resumption of direct flights is expected to facilitate easier business travel, enhance people-to-people exchanges, and boost tourism between the two nations. It will also provide an alternative travel route at a time when global aviation routes are shifting due to geopolitical tensions.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs noted that restarting these flights aligns with the goal of “gradual normalization of bilateral exchanges.” Reopening air routes may also help reduce the cost and time for travelers, who previously had to rely on third-country transits.
Are Political Factors Also Influencing This Move?
Yes. India’s evolving foreign policy and the shifting global trade landscape have also played a role. While Delhi’s trade ties with Western countries like the U.S. have seen fluctuations, its engagement with Asian partners, including China, is growing.
Recent visits by senior diplomats, including Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, have led to renewed emphasis on cooperation over competition. Both leaders have publicly stated their commitment to seeing each other as “partners” rather than adversaries.
Final Thoughts
The return of direct flights between India and China is more than just a transport update—it’s a clear signal of thawing relations between two of Asia’s largest powers. As both countries continue to rebuild trust, the restoration of travel links could pave the way for deeper cooperation across economic, cultural, and strategic sectors. This move, though logistical in nature, carries meaningful diplomatic weight in the ongoing effort to stabilize regional dynamics.
