India-China Direct Flights Resume After 5-Year Hiatus
Direct air connectivity between India and China has officially resumed after a five-year suspension, with IndiGo launching its inaugural Kolkata-Guangzhou service. This development marks a significant breakthrough for both aviation and diplomatic relations between the two nations.
Key Developments
- IndiGo operates first direct India-China flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou
- China Eastern Airlines to launch Delhi-Shanghai route from November 2025
- Air India expected to join India-China network by year-end
- Resumption signals improving bilateral relations
Flight Operations Resume
IndiGo flight 6E 1703 departed Kolkata Airport at 10:06 PM on Sunday and is scheduled to arrive in Guangzhou at 4:05 AM local time on Monday, according to flight-tracking platform Flightradar24.
Expanding Connectivity
China Eastern Airlines, China’s largest carrier, will commence Delhi-Shanghai direct flights from November 9, 2025, providing additional travel options between the two countries.
More Airlines Joining
Air India is also preparing to enter the India-China route network by the end of this year, further enhancing air connectivity and offering passengers more choices.
Diplomatic Significance
The flight resumption comes amid improving diplomatic ties, relaxed trade restrictions, and renewed bilateral dialogue, representing a fresh chapter in India-China relations across both economic and diplomatic spheres.
