After a three-year hiatus due to pandemic restrictions, the Chinese mainland and India are gearing up to reconnect their skies. On Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun confirmed that direct flights between the two nations will resume before the end of October, marking a major milestone in post-COVID recovery.
For travellers, students, and entrepreneurs alike, this announcement could translate into shorter journeys and more affordable options. Currently, many passengers rely on one-stop routes via Middle Eastern hubs, stretching travel times to 1824 hours. With direct services set to launch, airlines from both sides are likely to operate daily connections linking major cities such as Beijing and Delhi, Shanghai and Mumbai.
Industry analysts predict that restoring direct connectivity could drive up to a 40% jump in passenger numbers on this corridor by year-end. 'We expect at least 500,000 travellers to benefit from direct routes as business ties and tourism bounce back,' says aviation consultant Priya Rao. Startups and tech professionals, in particular, stand to gain from quicker access to booming markets in the two most populous countries in the world.
More than just a travel story, this move signals renewed collaboration. Cultural exchanges, student programmes, and even sports events2from cricket tours to tech summits2will see streamlined logistics. As digital nomads and globe-trotting enthusiasts plan their next adventures, easy-book direct flights could become the new normal.
With just weeks to go until October, travellers are advised to keep an eye on airline announcements and book early. The return of direct services between the Chinese mainland and India not only simplifies travel2it underscores a shared desire to reconnect people, ideas, and opportunities across borders.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
