Direct flights between India and China, suspended for nearly five years, continue to remain on hold as of April 2025, despite ongoing discussions and a preliminary agreement reached earlier this year. The absence of direct air connectivity has significantly impacted business travelers, students, and tourists, who are forced to rely on third-country connections. Here’s a detailed look at the current situation, the progress in talks, and what this means for travelers.
Direct Flights Between India and China Suspended for Nearly Five Years
The suspension of direct flights between India and China began in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and was later extended amid heightened geopolitical tensions following the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo halted their services, with Air India suspending its Delhi-Hong Kong and Delhi-Shanghai routes until June 30, 2020. Since then, the absence of direct flights has forced travelers to take longer, costlier routes via countries like Thailand, Singapore, or the UAE, increasing both travel time and expenses
Both Countries Started Discussions to Resume Services in Early 2025
Efforts to restore direct air connectivity gained momentum in early 2025 as India and China worked to mend ties. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of a summit in Russia in October 2024, marking their first formal talks in five years. This meeting set the stage for renewed discussions, with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi meeting India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri in Beijing to address bilateral issues, including flight resumptions.
A Preliminary Agreement Was Reached in January, but No Date Is Set
In a significant step forward, India and China reached a preliminary agreement in January 2025 to resume direct flights, signaling a thaw in relations.
However, despite this progress, no specific date for restarting services has been announced. Both nations are navigating complex diplomatic and logistical challenges, including airspace regulations, airline readiness, and mutual approvals for flight schedules. The lack of a confirmed timeline has left travelers in limbo, awaiting clarity from both governments.
Business and Student Communities in Bad Talks Waiting Resumption
The prolonged suspension has hit the business and student communities the hardest. Indian businesses, particularly in manufacturing and pharmaceuticals, rely heavily on Chinese imports for components and raw materials. The absence of direct flights has increased logistics costs, with executives often traveling via third countries, adding 6-10 hours to their journeys. Similarly, Chinese businesses looking to invest in India face similar hurdles, impacting trade relations.
Thousands of Indian students studying in China, especially in medical and engineering fields, have struggled with visa delays and high travel costs. Conversely, Chinese students in India face similar challenges, often spending upwards of ₹50,000 on indirect flights. Both communities are eagerly awaiting the resumption of direct flights to ease travel woes and reduce expenses.
Final Decision Still Pending from Both Governments
The Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation and China’s Civil Aviation Administration are reportedly in the final stages of discussions, but no official announcement has been made as of April 14, 2025. Travelers are advised to monitor official updates from both governments for the latest developments.
Conclusion: India-China Flights Still on Hold
Direct flights between India and China remain suspended for the fifth year, affecting travelers, businesses, and students. A January 2025 agreement offers hope, but no restart date is confirmed yet. Until then, third-country routes remain the only option. Resuming direct flights could greatly benefit trade, education, and tourism.
Stay tuned for updates as India and China work toward restoring this vital air link, make sure to follow Notifier on Instagram and Facebook if you liked this article!
