Beijing-Delhi Direct Flights Resume Signaling Thaw in India China Relations

New Delhi- Direct air travel between India and China has received a significant boost with Air China resuming its Beijing-Delhi service, marking a gradual restoration of connectivity between the two nations after years of disruption.

The Beijing to Delhi route is set to operate three times a week, with flights scheduled on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays using wide-body aircraft. The move comes as part of a broader revival of aviation links that were largely suspended following the COVID-19 pandemic and tensions after the Galwan Valley clash.

This development follows the recent restart of services by China Eastern Airlines, which resumed direct flights between Kunming and Kolkata earlier this month. The airline had also previously relaunched its Shanghai-Delhi route, indicating a steady expansion of China-India connectivity.

Indian carriers have also joined the revival push. IndiGo recently launched a direct Kolkata-Shanghai service and earlier introduced flights between Delhi and Guangzhou, further strengthening the aviation network between the two countries.

Officials and observers say the resumption of these routes reflects improving diplomatic engagement and a mutual interest in boosting trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Statements from Chinese leadership have also indicated a willingness to stabilise ties, emphasising cooperation over competition.

The gradual reopening of direct flights is being seen as an important step in rebuilding trust and normalising relations, with increased connectivity expected to support economic and cultural exchanges between the two Asian powers.