India–China Direct Flights Resume After Four Years as Diplomatic Ties Warm Up
Direct air connectivity between India and China has been restored after nearly four years, signalling a notable shift in the two nations’ improving diplomatic relationship. The first IndiGo flight on the revived route, 6E 1703 from Kolkata, landed in Guangzhou on Monday with approximately 180 passengers on board.
Flight services were initially halted in early 2020 at the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. Tensions along the disputed Himalayan border area that later turned deadly further delayed the resumption of services. However, with both sides gradually engaging in dialogue, relations have begun to stabilise.
Last year, India and China reached a significant understanding on border patrolling protocols, paving the way for renewed confidence-building efforts. The momentum continued in 2024 as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited China for the first time in seven years, followed by Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to New Delhi shortly after.
The Indian government has stated that the restoration of flights will boost “people-to-people contact” and support the “gradual normalisation of bilateral exchanges.” India has also restarted issuing visas to Chinese tourists, adding another layer of connectivity between the neighbouring countries.
