Technical-level discussions between aviation authorities from both sides have been ongoing since earlier this year, the ministry said in its statement.
India-China Flights Resumed
After extensive talks between the civil aviation authorities, India and China have decided to start direct flight services again by the end of this month. Following the recent icebreaker meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit, India’s Ministry of External Affairs announced the agreement today, signaling a significant breakthrough.
Technical-level discussions between aviation authorities from both sides have been ongoing since earlier this year, the ministry said in its statement. Restoring direct connection and completing a revamped Air Services Agreement were the main topics of discussion.
IndiGo Resumes China Flights
As long as all operational and commercial conditions are satisfied, the new agreement will allow selected airlines from China and India to run direct flights between predetermined locations beginning with the winter timetable.
IndiGo confirmed the return of its services to Mainland China after the diplomatic endeavor, with daily nonstop flights from Kolkata to Guangzhou beginning on October 26, 2025. IndiGo will soon launch direct flights between Delhi and Guangzhou, pending regulatory permissions.
In order to reestablish pathways for cross-border commerce and strategic commercial collaborations, as well as to boost tourism between the two countries, IndiGo announced that it would conduct these flights using its Airbus A320 Neo aircraft.
Bilateral Ties Gradually Strengthen
It is anticipated that the action will increase people-to-people interactions, which have been significantly reduced since the COVID-19 epidemic and the ensuing border tensions between China and India. Resuming air connections will “help towards the eventual normalisation of bilateral interactions,” officials stressed.
For almost four years, there had been no direct flights between the two Asian neighbors, which caused disruptions to academic, economic, and travel interactions. Despite ongoing diplomatic interaction, the declaration marks a cautious but significant warming in relations.
The most recent development takes place against the background of trade talks between the United States and India, as well as President Donald Trump’s imposition of 50% tariffs on India. The restart of flights coincides with broader attempts by both governments to stabilize ties, including small actions meant to rebuild trust and collaboration. According to analysts, the move is a pragmatic step that might facilitate more cross-cultural and economic exchange.