In a significant development for international travel and diplomatic relations, direct passenger flights between India and China have officially resumed after a four-year suspension prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The resumption marks a potential thaw in relations between the two Asian neighbours, who have maintained strained ties following deadly border clashes in 2020. Air China has confirmed it will operate four weekly flights between Beijing and Delhi, restoring crucial air connectivity between the world's two most populous nations.
Four-Year Aviation Freeze Ends
The aviation corridor between India and China had remained frozen since early 2020, when both countries implemented strict travel restrictions in response to the emerging coronavirus pandemic. While cargo flights continued operating throughout this period, passenger services were completely halted, creating significant challenges for business travellers, students, and families separated by the border closure.
The restoration of air links comes despite ongoing military tensions along the Himalayan border, where both nations maintain substantial troop deployments following the fatal Galwan Valley clash that claimed at least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers' lives.
Current Flight Operations
Air India had previously resumed its Delhi-Shanghai service in August 2023, but the latest expansion by Air China significantly increases connectivity options between the two capitals. The Chinese carrier will operate the Beijing-Delhi route on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays using modern Airbus A330 aircraft.
Industry analysts suggest the resumption reflects growing confidence in travel demand between the economic powerhouses, though passenger numbers are expected to build gradually as both nations navigate complex visa processes and lingering diplomatic sensitivities.
Diplomatic Implications
The flight resumption occurs against a backdrop of cautious diplomatic engagement. Indian and Chinese military commanders have held multiple rounds of talks to disengage troops from contentious border areas, though a comprehensive resolution remains elusive.
Aviation restoration is widely seen as a confidence-building measure that could pave the way for broader normalisation of relations. The development will be particularly welcomed by Indian students stranded in China and business communities in both countries who have faced substantial logistical challenges during the flight suspension.
As both nations navigate their complex relationship, the return of direct air links represents a tangible step toward rebuilding people-to-people connections and economic cooperation between these Asian giants.
