New Delhi / Beijing — October 14, 2025
After a five-year hiatus, India and China have officially resumed direct flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, marking a significant milestone in bilateral connectivity and signaling a positive shift in diplomatic relations. The suspension of flights, initially prompted by geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic, had created challenges for business travelers, tourists, and the diaspora community. (en.wikipedia.org)
“Resuming these direct flights is more than just about travel — it is a symbol of renewed cooperation and trust between India and China,” said Indian Civil Aviation Minister Anil Kumar.
Details of the Flight Resumption
The resumed flights are operated by national carriers of both countries, offering multiple weekly services between Kolkata, India, and Guangzhou, China. Key highlights include:
Enhanced passenger convenience, reducing travel time and avoiding transit via third countries.
Boost to trade and commerce, particularly for the textile, electronics, and e-commerce sectors.
Facilitating tourism and cultural exchange, benefiting travelers from both countries.
“We are thrilled to reconnect with our Indian partners,” said Liu Wei, spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Administration of China. “These flights will strengthen people-to-people ties and support economic growth.”
Economic and Strategic Implications
The resumption of direct flights is expected to have a positive impact on trade, investment, and tourism:
Trade Boost: India and China are significant trading partners. Faster, direct flights will expedite business travel and facilitate logistics.
Tourism Growth: Travel between the two nations is poised to rebound, supporting hotels, airlines, and local economies.
Cultural Exchange: Students, researchers, and professionals will benefit from easier access, promoting stronger educational and cultural ties.
Experts note that Kolkata and Guangzhou are strategic hubs, making this route vital for both commercial and diplomatic engagement.
Historical Context
Direct flights between India and China were suspended in 2020 amid rising geopolitical tensions and pandemic-related travel restrictions. Over the past five years, travelers had to rely on indirect routes, often involving longer travel times and increased costs. The resumption signals both countries’ intent to normalize relations and rebuild trust, even amid ongoing regional complexities.
“Reestablishing direct flights is a pragmatic step that shows a commitment to dialogue and cooperation,” said geopolitical analyst Dr. Ramesh Sharma. “It reflects mutual recognition of economic interdependence.”
Traveler and Industry Reactions
Passengers and businesses have welcomed the move:
Frequent flyers, including business executives and students, praised the convenience and reduced travel costs.
Airlines and travel agencies anticipate a surge in bookings, with special promotional fares being introduced for initial months.
Logistics companies expect faster movement of goods, particularly in sectors where timing and supply chain efficiency are critical.
Looking Ahead
Officials from both nations indicate that this is the first step in expanding air connectivity. Plans are underway to consider additional routes between major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Shanghai, and Beijing, further integrating travel networks and strengthening bilateral engagement.
“This is a strategic win-win for both countries,” said Liu Wei. “We hope this connectivity will be a bridge for commerce, culture, and collaboration in the years to come.”
Conclusion
The resumption of direct flights between India and China represents a major milestone in aviation and diplomacy, bridging five years of disruption. Beyond transportation, it serves as a symbol of renewed trust, economic partnership, and cultural exchange. As travelers take to the skies, both nations signal a commitment to pragmatic engagement and regional connectivity, laying the groundwork for stronger bilateral relations in 2025 and beyond.
