Three major Chinese airlines—Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines—have applied to India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to resume direct passenger flights to India.
Additionally, an unnamed Chinese cargo operator has also sought approval. These airlines aim to reconnect major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata with Chinese hubs, marking the end of a five-year suspension of direct flights.
This move signals a potential thaw in bilateral relations and a boost for travel and trade.
Why the Five-Year Hiatus?
The suspension of direct flights between India and China began in 2020, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the virus spread, both nations imposed strict travel restrictions, grounding international flights.
The hiatus then extended due to geopolitical tensions. The 2020 Galwan Valley clash along the India-China border escalated diplomatic strains, leading to a prolonged suspension of direct air links.
Even as global travel resumed, India and China maintained restrictions, with Indian airlines like IndiGo and Air India halting services to China, and Chinese carriers ceasing operations to India.
During this period, travel between the two nations relied on connecting flights through hubs like Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong, making trips costlier and longer.
The absence of direct flights also impacted trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, given the significant Indian student population in China and the growing business ties before 2020. The lack of direct connectivity became a symbol of strained relations, despite the economic importance of both nations.
The Push for Resumption
The recent applications by Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and China Southern Airlines signal a mutual interest in restoring connectivity. These carriers have requested operational clearances to serve key Indian cities, with slot allocations expected once approvals are granted.
The inclusion of a cargo operator highlights the demand for efficient logistics, as India and China remain major trading partners despite political differences.
This development aligns with efforts to stabilize bilateral ties. Recent diplomatic engagements, including talks between Indian and Chinese foreign ministers, have emphasized economic cooperation.
Resuming direct flights could facilitate business travel, reduce costs for students and tourists, and strengthen supply chains.
For instance, China is a key source of electronics and manufacturing components for India, while India exports pharmaceuticals and agricultural goods to China.
Implications for Travel and Trade
The resumption of direct flights will likely benefit travellers significantly. Before 2020, airlines like Air India and China Eastern operated routes connecting Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru with Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
Restoring these routes could lower airfares, which spiked due to reliance on connecting flights. A direct Delhi-Beijing flight, for example, takes about six hours, compared to 10-12 hours with layovers.
This convenience could spur tourism, with Chinese visitors exploring India’s cultural sites and Indian travellers visiting China’s historical landmarks.
For businesses, direct flights mean faster movement of goods and personnel. The cargo operator’s application underscores the need for streamlined logistics, especially as India aims to boost exports under its “Make in India” initiative.
Enhanced connectivity could also encourage Chinese investments in Indian infrastructure, provided regulatory hurdles are addressed.
Challenges Ahead
While the applications signal progress, challenges remain. The DGCA’s approval process involves scrutiny of safety, compliance, and bilateral agreements. Geopolitical sensitivities could delay clearances, as both nations navigate their complex relationship.
Additionally, Indian airlines may push for reciprocal access to Chinese routes, ensuring a level playing field.
The applications by Air China, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, and a cargo operator mark a pivotal step toward reconnecting India and China.
As the DGCA reviews these requests, travellers and businesses now await direct flights that promise convenience and economic benefits.
