Direct air services linking designated points in China and India will resume by late October 2025, according to an announcement posted on the website of India’s Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday. The flights will operate in line with the winter season schedule, subject to the commercial decisions of airlines from both countries and the fulfilment of all operational requirements.
Path Toward Normalisation Of Relations
India’s Ministry of External Affairs stated that since earlier this year, civil aviation authorities from both nations have held a series of technical discussions. These talks focused on restoring direct services and revising the existing Air Services Agreement, which has been suspended since 2020. The resumption is viewed as part of the broader strategy of gradual normalisation between India and China.
The release emphasised that the new arrangement would strengthen direct engagement. It read that the agreement between the aviation authorities would “further facilitate people-to-people contact between India and China, contributing toward the gradual normalization of bilateral exchanges.”
Leaders Committed To Restoring Ties
On 18 August, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with his Indian counterpart Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New Delhi. During their discussions, the two sides agreed to resume direct air connections, revise the aviation agreement, and provide visa facilitation.
Chinese Position On Travel Links
On 14 August, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian addressed reports that flights could restart as early as September. He underlined the significance of the decision, stating,
“We noted relevant reports. The total population of China and India combined is over 2.8 billion. Resuming direct flights between the Chinese mainland and India helps facilitate cross-border travel, exchanges and cooperation. For some time, the Chinese side has been in close communication with India to promote the early resumption of direct flights between the two countries.”
Significance Of Restored Connectivity
Himadrish Suwan, chairman of the Confederation of Young Leaders of India, described the development as a positive step. He noted that renewed links between the two countries could influence multiple sectors.
“It marks a welcome and pragmatic step toward enhancing connectivity and deepening mutual understanding between our two nations. It will not only strengthen people-to-people exchanges, but also open new avenues for cooperation in trade, education, tourism and youth-led engagement. At a time when the global community faces unprecedented challenges, building bridges of trust and connectivity between India and China will contribute to regional stability and shared prosperity.”
Academic Perspectives On The Decision
Long Xingchun, a professor at the School of International Relations at Sichuan International Studies University, characterised the return of flights as a test of bilateral normalisation. He pointed out that the decision holds particular value for Indian nationals.
“There have been more Indians studying, doing business or traveling in China than Chinese in India. Hopefully, on the basis of resuming direct air services, India can step further to simplify the visa process for Chinese citizens.”
Airline Confirmation Of Direct Routes
According to India Today, budget airline IndiGo confirmed that it will resume flights on 26 October 2025. The carrier’s announcement followed shortly after the Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that both governments had reached an understanding.
Looking Forward
The return of direct flights marks an important milestone after more than five years of interruption. For travellers, students, business leaders, and policymakers alike, the restoration of these routes represents a chance to rebuild lost connections and encourage broader cooperation between two of the world’s most populous nations.
