Air India and IndiGo are instrumental in revitalizing direct air travel between India and China, reestablishing routes that have remained inactive for over six years. This initiative comes at a crucial moment when both countries are keen to mend and enhance their economic and cultural connections following the disruptions brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The reintroduction of these promising air routes, including Air India’s non-stop Delhi–Shanghai flight, is anticipated to not only elevate tourism by facilitating travel between these two key markets but also to expedite trade and business prospects. With both nations at the forefront of aviation expansion in the Asia-Pacific, these newly restored links are poised to unlock considerable commercial advantages, shorten transit durations, and nurture deeper bilateral relations, representing a vital advancement for the long-term prosperity of both countries.
Indian airlines are swiftly reestablishing their footprint in China, signaling a crucial shift in air travel between the two nations. After a six-year hiatus in direct flights, both India and China have consented to resume services, creating a long-awaited economic and cultural link. Leading this resurgence is IndiGo, which launched its operations on the Kolkata–Guangzhou route in late October 2025. Air India is preparing to follow suit with the eagerly awaited revival of its non-stop Delhi–Shanghai service, commencing on February 1, 2026. Additionally, Air India plans to roll out a Mumbai–Shanghai route later in the year, pending regulatory approvals.
China Eastern Airlines has also reinstated flights between the two countries, re-establishing essential connectivity. The revival of these direct air connections is viewed as a significant advancement in rejuvenating the air travel and tourism sectors, as well as fortifying trade and cultural exchanges between India and China.
Air India’s return to mainland China marks a significant achievement, as the airline is set to operate four weekly flights between Delhi and Shanghai. These services will utilize the Boeing 787-8, a modern aircraft designed to provide passengers with exceptional comfort. Business Class will offer flat-bed seats, enhancing the travel experience for upper-class passengers, while Economy Class will ensure ample space for all travelers. The relaunch of these services marks Air India’s first return to China since early 2020 and underscores the gradual improvement in diplomatic relations between New Delhi and Beijing.
This initiative unfolds at a time when both India and China are recuperating from the travel interruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with air travel demand expected to surge. Prior to the pandemic, more than 500 direct flights were conducted each month between India and China, highlighting the substantial demand for business, tourism, and trade-related travel. The resumption of these flights is projected to significantly impact tourism and trade, revitalizing the connections between these two prominent Asian powers.
The recently reinstated flights will also address the increasing demands of the business sector. The launch of daily non-stop cargo services between the two nations marks a particularly noteworthy advancement. This change will facilitate quicker transit times and lower freight expenses, as cargo will no longer need to navigate detours through regional hubs. The anticipated time savings of up to 24 hours, along with a 15–20% decrease in freight costs, will yield significant economic advantages for enterprises in both countries.
Air India’s CEO, Campbell Wilson, conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the airline’s renewed presence in China, highlighting that the service would enhance the economic and cultural ties between India and China. The airline intends to create new opportunities for business, trade, education, and healthcare, especially in Shanghai, one of China’s leading economic and financial centers. Wilson further underscored that the resumed flights would promote closer collaboration between India and China, paving the way for increased bilateral exchanges.
Beyond the advantages for businesses and industries, the resumption of direct flights is anticipated to enhance tourism between the two countries. India has historically been a favored destination for Chinese travelers, and the reverse is also true. As both nations continue their recovery from the pandemic, the ability to travel directly between major cities will make visits more convenient and appealing for tourists. Furthermore, this initiative is likely to ignite a rise in student exchanges and cultural tourism, with both nations eager to showcase their unique cultures.
The aviation sector in Asia is currently undergoing a thrilling growth period, and India is set to play a pivotal role in this development. India’s aviation market is forecasted to be the fastest-expanding major aviation market in the Asia-Pacific region beginning in 2026. Consequently, the reactivation of these air routes between India and China is expected to deliver a significant commercial uplift for both nations, further establishing India as a crucial player in the global aviation landscape.
India’s aviation industry has experienced rapid growth in recent years, fueled by a burgeoning middle class and rising demand for both domestic and international travel. This expansion is evident in the government’s initiatives to construct new airports, enhance connectivity, and attract more international airlines to the nation. The reinstatement of direct flights to China is part of this larger trend, as India fortifies its status as a prominent aviation hub.
The renewed air connections between India and China will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on both countries’ economies and tourism sectors. For businesses, the capability to transport goods and services between the two nations more efficiently will help unlock new commercial avenues. For travelers, the reintroduction of direct flights makes traveling between India and China more reachable, economical, and convenient. With both nations at the forefront of aviation growth in Asia, these air routes are anticipated to play a vital role in shaping the future of travel and trade between India and China.
These revived routes present considerable commercial advantages, quicker transit times, and enhanced bilateral relations for both nations.
For all aviation-related guidance (DGCA ground classes, pilot training, cabin crew training)
Contact us https://contrail.in/
phone numbers +91 78457 69399