China and India are in discussions to resume direct flights between the two countries, according to a report by ch-aviation. The talks are a significant development in the efforts to restore air connectivity between the two nations, which was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Chinese embassy in India has confirmed that both countries are engaged in negotiations to restart direct flights, with the possibility of flights resuming as early as next month. The embassy stated that the talks are focused on finalizing the details of the flight resumption, including the frequency and routes of the flights.
The suspension of direct flights between China and India has been in place since November 2020, when the Indian government imposed restrictions on international travel due to the pandemic. Since then, passengers have had to rely on indirect flights with layovers, which has significantly increased travel time and costs.
The resumption of direct flights is expected to have a significant impact on trade and tourism between the two countries. China is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at over $100 billion in 2020. The direct flights will facilitate the movement of goods and people, boosting economic ties between the two nations.
The talks between China and India are also seen as a positive development in the context of the deteriorating relationship between the two countries. The border dispute between China and India has led to increased tensions, with both countries imposing restrictions on each other’s citizens. The resumption of direct flights is a step towards normalizing relations and increasing people-to-people contact.
Several airlines, including Air India and China Eastern, have expressed interest in operating direct flights between China and India. The Indian government has also announced plans to increase the number of flights between the two countries, with the goal of enhancing air connectivity and promoting tourism.
Overall, the resumption of direct flights between China and India is a significant development that is expected to have a positive impact on trade, tourism, and people-to-people ties between the two nations. The talks between the two countries are ongoing, and a final decision is expected soon. With the possibility of flights resuming as early as next month, passengers can look forward to a significant reduction in travel time and costs, making it easier to travel between the two countries.