State-backed China Eastern Airlines is set to resume Shanghai-Delhi commercial flights starting November 9, marking the first direct air links between China and India in five years. The flights, which will operate three times weekly—on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays—signal a diplomatic thaw between the neighboring nations amid global economic pressures and regional tensions.

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Revival of China-India Air Connectivity

According to the airline’s online booking platform, passengers can now purchase tickets for the resuming flights, reflecting renewed cooperation in both aviation and trade sectors. The five-year suspension of direct flights originally stemmed from a combination of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and subsequent military clashes along the Himalayan border, which resulted in casualties on both sides.

The resumption of services comes after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s first visit to China in over seven years, coinciding with a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. During the visit, discussions focused on improving trade ties, with Modi addressing concerns about India’s growing trade deficit with China.

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Context: Border Tensions and Diplomatic Thaw

Direct flights between China and India were halted following the deadliest border clashes in decades, where four Chinese soldiers and 20 Indian soldiers lost their lives. The resulting military stand-off created heightened mistrust and froze many bilateral initiatives, including commercial air services.

The recent diplomatic thaw, paving the way for China Eastern Airlines’ return, has been influenced partly by United States trade policies, including high tariffs on Indian imports and pressure on Europe to take similar measures. This shift has prompted both Asian powers to strengthen regional ties and trade connectivity independently of external pressures.

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Expansion of Air Services Between China and India

In addition to China Eastern Airlines, India’s largest carrier, IndiGo, has announced plans to operate daily nonstop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou. Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has encouraged airlines to open more direct routes connecting major Chinese and Indian cities, such as Guangzhou-Delhi, to foster economic cooperation and tourism.

The revival of direct flights is expected to boost trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges, offering a vital link for business travelers, students, and tourists in both countries.

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Impact on Regional Trade and Travel

The restart of commercial flights is likely to ease trade and travel restrictions that have hindered economic growth for businesses and individuals in both nations. Improved connectivity can also help strengthen bilateral relations, reduce travel times, and enhance people-to-people contact, reinforcing long-term diplomatic and economic collaboration.

Experts suggest that this step could mark the beginning of wider cooperation in trade, aviation, and tourism, signaling a cautious but notable shift in China-India relations following years of tension and stalled initiatives.