India, China to Resume Direct Flights from October 26 After Five-Year Gap
After a five-year hiatus, India and China are set to resume direct air services on October 26, 2025. This marks a significant step towards the gradual normalization of bilateral relations. The decision follows a series of diplomatic engagements and technical discussions between the civil aviation authorities of both countries.
IndiGo was the first airline to announce the resumption of services, beginning direct flights connecting Kolkata and Guangzhou on October 26. The airline will operate daily non-stop flights using Airbus A320neo aircraft. Additionally, IndiGo plans to introduce a Delhi-Guangzhou route shortly, further enhancing connectivity between the two Asian nations.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed this development, stating that both countries had agreed to revise the Air Services Agreement to facilitate the restart of flights. The MEA noted, “As part of the Government’s approach towards the gradual normalization of relations between India and China, the civil aviation authorities of the two countries have engaged in technical discussions on resuming direct air services.”
Air India is also expected to resume its flight operations to China by the end of the year, providing more options for travelers, businesses, and students.
Flight services between India and China were initially disrupted after the Doklam crisis in 2017 and were completely suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Galwan Valley clashes in 2020 further strained relations, delaying the resumption of normal exchanges.
However, over the past year, both nations have taken steps to stabilize relations. The disengagement process at Depsang and Demchok along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in late 2024, accompanied by high-level dialogues and the easing of certain trade restrictions, has created conditions favorable for restoring people-to-people and business exchanges.
IndiGo’s announcement follows Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to New Delhi last month, during which the possibility of flight resumption was first indicated.
This move is expected to re-establish vital avenues for cross-border trade, tourism, and educational exchanges. According to aviation experts, resuming direct connectivity will not only benefit travelers but also strengthen strategic business partnerships between the two nations.
As flights restart under the winter schedule, the aviation sector views this development as a milestone in rebuilding confidence and cooperation between India and China.
