China and India, the two most populous nations, have agreed to resume direct commercial flights after a five-year hiatus. This development marks a significant step toward strengthening ties between the neighboring countries.
Flights Halted Due to Pandemic and Political Tensions
Direct flights between India and mainland China were suspended in early 2020 as the COVID-19 pandemic took hold. Subsequent political tensions, including a violent border clash in 2020, kept air services on hold.
The recent announcement was made after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, both sides reached a consensus “in principle to resume direct air services,” with detailed plans to follow soon.
China’s Foreign Ministry also announced plans to reopen the sacred sites of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar in western Tibet to Indian pilgrims this year, further highlighting efforts to improve relations.
Background: Tensions and Progress
The suspension of flights coincided with a period of strained relations. In June 2020, soldiers from both countries clashed in the Himalayas, resulting in casualties on both sides. Since then, border disengagement and dialogue have helped ease tensions.
A pivotal meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping during the BRICS summit in October 2024 played a key role in fostering cooperation.
Travelers React to the News
The announcement has sparked enthusiasm among travelers. On Chinese social media platform Weibo, users shared their excitement. Some expressed hopes of visiting India for cultural festivals like Holi, while others were eager to explore India’s rich history and cuisine.
One user shared their story of buying a flight ticket to India in February 2020, only to have both their flight and visa canceled. “The wait lasted five years. I must visit India now,” they wrote.
For Indian students in China, the news is a relief. Anayat Ali, an Indian Ph.D. student in Shanghai, said, “Direct flights mean I can visit family more often, save money, and avoid the stress of long layovers.”
Current Travel Challenges
Currently, travelers between India and China face long layovers, with transit points like Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Kuala Lumpur adding six to ten hours to the journey. Previously, direct flights between Beijing and New Delhi took just seven hours.
Chinese authorities and airlines had reportedly urged India to restore direct flights, but negotiations took time. Despite the announcement, some social media users remain skeptical about the timeline for implementation.
Looking Ahead
The resumption of direct flights is a promising development, reflecting a gradual thaw in relations between the two countries. While challenges remain, this step opens the door for closer ties, cultural exchange, and economic cooperation.
For travelers and businesses, the return of direct air services is a long-awaited opportunity to rebuild connections between two vibrant nations.
