India and China to Resume Direct Flights After Five Years

In a significant step toward improving bilateral relations, India and China have agreed to resume direct passenger flights later this month. The move comes after a gap of more than five years, during which air connectivity between the two nations remained suspended due to a mix of political tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to official statements, the restoration of direct air services is expected to benefit students, business professionals, and tourists from both sides. Over the past few years, Indian students studying in Chinese universities have faced difficulties returning to campus because of limited flight options and high ticket costs through third-country connections.

Analysts view this development as a signal of a cautious but notable thaw in ties. Diplomatic engagement between New Delhi and Beijing has seen ups and downs in recent years, particularly after the border clashes in Ladakh in 2020. Resuming flights is being seen as a confidence-building measure, aimed at normalizing people-to-people exchanges and easing trade-related travel.

Airlines from both countries are expected to announce schedules soon, with major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Beijing, and Shanghai likely to be the first to reconnect. Aviation experts suggest that the reopening of routes will also bring down airfare, which has remained disproportionately high for India-China travel compared to other international destinations.

The revival of direct flights does not mean that all disputes between the two nations have been resolved. However, it highlights a willingness on both sides to strengthen cooperation in areas of common interest, while continuing dialogue on sensitive issues.

For now, the resumption of flights offers relief to thousands of passengers who have long awaited smoother and more affordable travel between the two Asian giants.