India-China Direct Flights Resume After 5 Years: A Milestone in Rebuilding Bilateral Relations

Oct 27, 2025 11:03 am CST

After a five-year suspension, direct flights between India and China have officially resumed with IndiGo flight 6E1703 landing in Guangzhou from Kolkata. This restoration of air connectivity marks a significant step in rebuilding diplomatic relations between the world's two most populous nations following pandemic disruptions and border tensions. The Indian government anticipates enhanced people-to-people contact and normalized bilateral exchanges, while business travelers celebrate the convenience of direct routes replacing longer journeys through third countries. Additional services from New Delhi to Chinese cities are scheduled to begin in November, potentially boosting trade, tourism, and diplomatic engagement despite ongoing strategic challenges.