India and China Likely to Resume Direct Passenger Flights Soon
India and China Likely to Resume Direct Passenger Flights Soon
India and China are preparing to restart direct passenger flights as early as next month, according to a Bloomberg report citing sources familiar with the discussions. The move, aimed at restoring air connectivity between the two largest populated countries, comes after a suspension of services that began during the Covid-19 pandemic. Indian airlines have been instructed to be on standby for immediate operations once clearance is given. An official announcement may be made during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit scheduled in China at the end of August.
Background: Suspension Since Covid-19
Direct air travel between India and China has remained suspended since the pandemic, forcing passengers to travel through alternate hubs such as Hong Kong or Singapore. The upcoming reopening of flight routes is taking place against the backdrop of shifting geopolitical ties. Recently, India’s trade relations with the US have faced friction after Washington doubled tariffs on Indian exports in response to New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil.
Geopolitical Context and Past Tensions
India-China relations soured in 2020 following the deadly border clashes in Galwan Valley that claimed the lives of 20 Indian soldiers and an undisclosed number of Chinese troops. Despite tensions, India has recently relaxed visa restrictions for Chinese tourists, signaling a willingness to improve people-to-people connectivity. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend the SCO summit in Tianjin on August 31, where a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping could take place.
Indian Airlines Briefed, Awaiting Approval
Indian aviation authorities have reportedly briefed airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, though neither has issued a public statement. While the timeline for the resumption is still uncertain, sources noted that the decision could face last-minute hurdles depending on the outcome of negotiations.
History of Flight Operations
Before the suspension, Indian carriers such as Air India and IndiGo operated direct routes to China, alongside Chinese airlines including Air China and China Southern. Earlier efforts to restart flights in January and June 2025 failed due to diplomatic challenges. However, in the past two weeks, significant progress has been made, with airlines now preparing for a potential relaunch of services.
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