India and China Prepare to Resume Direct Flights After Years of Suspension
India and China could resume their direct air services as early as next month, according to sources familiar with the talks who spoke to Bloomberg. The rapprochement comes as both nations seek to rebuild political ties after years of tensions and restrictions.
Accelerated Preparations for the Official Announcement
The Indian government has already instructed its airlines to be ready to operate routes to China at short notice. A formal announcement could be made during the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit, scheduled for late August in China.
Sources, who requested anonymity, indicated that the exact date remains subject to change, and delays are possible if last-minute hurdles arise.
Three Years Without Direct Connectivity
Passenger flights between India and China were suspended following the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Since then, travelers have had to rely on stopovers in hubs such as Hong Kong or Singapore to move between the two countries.
The push to restore the link comes amid a complex diplomatic backdrop, with Indo-U.S. relations under strain after former President Donald Trump doubled tariffs on Indian goods to 50% in retaliation for New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil.
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Political and Diplomatic Context
Bilateral relations hit rock bottom in 2020, when border clashes resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese troops. In a recent sign of easing tensions, India reinstated tourist visas for Chinese nationals after years of restrictions.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin from August 31 onwards, where a meeting with President Xi Jinping is possible.
Airlines Ready for Takeoff
Before the suspension, carriers such as Air India and IndiGo, along with Chinese airlines including Air China, China Southern, and China Eastern, operated routes connecting major cities in both nations.
Air India and IndiGo are expected to lead the resumption of services, although neither has commented on the matter.
The plans have gained momentum over the past two weeks, with airlines being notified of the proposal.
A Stop-and-Start History
This is not the first attempt. In January, India and China had agreed to restart direct flights, but the initiative stalled due to a limited conflict between India and Pakistan. In June, the intention to reactivate routes was announced again, but without concrete progress.
The difference this time is that political pressure and the proximity of the summit could finally turn the plan into reality.
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