India and China have initiated talks to resume direct flights between the two countries, which have been dormant since early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions. The discussions aim to simplify slot allocation and ground handling at airports, and airlines such as IndiGo and Air India are looking to reconnect cities like New Delhi and Shanghai.
The move follows a thaw in relations between the two nations, and the talks signal a step towards restoring robust air links between the world’s two most populous countries. This could have economic and cultural benefits, including the potential for the entry of Chinese low-cost carriers into India and a surge in air cargo.
The resumption of flights is dependent on airlines preparing ground operations at key airports and securing approvals at destination airports. This includes ensuring adequate staffing and compliance with local regulations at airports like Beijing and New Delhi.
The Indian airline industry views the potential resumption as a boon, with senior executives noting that pre-Covid flights to China boasted load factors up to 90%, reflecting strong demand. The resumption of flights could amplify connections between India and China, offering mutual benefits and reinforcing economic cooperation.
The talks are focused on practical steps to enable airlines to relaunch services efficiently, and negotiations are expected to progress in the coming months. If successful, the resumption of direct flights could lead to a revival of people-to-people exchanges and trade links between the two countries.