A New Chapter in Regional Travel and Economic Cooperation
India and China are preparing to resume direct flights for the first time in five years, a move expected to revive tourism, business travel, and broader regional cooperation.
Flights between the two Asian powers were halted in 2020 at the onset of the pandemic and, apart from a few repatriation services, never returned—even after both countries lifted COVID-19 restrictions. The planned restart signals a potential thaw in bilateral relations strained by the June 2020 border clash in the Galwan Valley.
Recent gestures of goodwill include India resuming visa issuance for Chinese citizens and China reopening access for Indian pilgrims to Kailash Mansarovar, a sacred site in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism.
Tourism and Business Boost Expected
Travel industry leaders believe the flight resumption could reshape tourism flows:
“The resumption of direct flights between India and China is expected to significantly boost tourism potential between the two countries,” said Jyoti Mayal, chairwoman of the Tourism & Hospitality Skill Council.
“This move is likely to lift business travel and events, benefiting both economies.”
Direct connections are expected to reduce travel time and costs, encouraging more tourists and business travelers alike.
Analysts also point to shifting global trade dynamics, including U.S. tariffs, as an added incentive for India and China to strengthen ties.
Possible Announcement During Modi’s Visit
Local media report that flights could resume within a month, with details expected during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Tianjin for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit.
Both countries are expected to update their air services agreement to establish the framework for flight schedules and destinations.
“Updating the agreement can help enhance cooperation and finalize details for resuming flights,” Mayal noted.
Which Routes Might Return?
Before the suspension, carriers such as China Southern Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, Air China, Air India, and SpiceJet operated regular services. Industry insiders expect these flights to return, with potential for new routes to be added over time.
“We’ll need to see which city pairs are initially included and the frequency of flights,” said Gary Bowerman, co-founder of High-Yield Tourism consultancy.
“Business and government travel will likely dominate the early stages, but over time, tourism flows will expand.”
Bowerman also noted growing Chinese interest in Indian destinations like Kolkata’s Chinatown, which reflects deep-rooted cultural ties dating back to the 18th century.
A Gradual but Promising Recovery
Experts caution that tourism will recover in phases, depending on flight capacity, affordability, and tailored travel products. Group travel, in particular, may take longer to rebound.
Still, both nations are seen as crucial markets for each other:
- China remains the world’s largest outbound tourism market.
- India’s outbound travel demand is growing rapidly, fueled by rising incomes and a youthful population.
Toward Regional Integration
Industry leaders argue the move could have a wider ripple effect across Asia.
“We are two very large economies. If we open up trade between the two countries, all Asian nations will benefit,” said Subhash Goyal, chairman of the aviation and tourism committee at the Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Mayal echoed this sentiment, calling for collaborative marketing initiatives to showcase each country’s attractions and foster regional tourism cooperation.
Bowerman predicted deeper economic integration over time, noting that both governments view tourism as a vital element of national branding.
