Direct Kolkata-Guangzhou Flights Restart After 5-Year Hiatus
In a major boost for bilateral travel, direct flights between Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU) and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) have resumed after nearly five years. The relaunch strengthens economic, cultural, and diplomatic ties between India and China, benefiting business travelers, tourists, and exporters.
Flight Schedule & Key Details
- Airline: [Insert airline name]
- Frequency: [E.g., 3 weekly flights, increasing based on demand]
- Duration: ~[X] hours (faster than connecting flights via Delhi/Bangkok)
- Suspension Reason: Halted in [2019/2020] due to COVID-19 and geopolitical tensions.
The revival signals improving India-China relations and rising demand for direct East India-South China connectivity.
Economic Benefits for Trade & SMEs
Guangzhou, a global trade hub, is critical for Indian businesses. The resumed flights will:
1. Cut Logistics Costs: Faster cargo movement for textiles, electronics, and pharmaceuticals.
2. Boost Investments: Chinese firms may explore opportunities in Bengal’s manufacturing sector.
3. Support SMEs: Easier access to Chinese raw materials and markets.
Tourism & Cultural Exchange Revival
- Kolkata’s Chinatown: Tangra’s Chinese-Indian community may reconnect with families in China.
- Tourist Attractions: Indians can explore Guangzhou’s Canton Tower or Chimelong Safari Park, while Chinese tourists visit Kolkata’s Victoria Memorial and Sundarbans.
Diplomatic Thaw & Challenges
The route’s return reflects cautious diplomatic progress, but hurdles remain:
– Strict Visas: Lengthy processes may limit travel demand.
– Geopolitical Risks: Border tensions could disrupt operations again.
– Pricing Competition: Airlines must rival transit hubs like Dubai.
Passenger & Industry Reactions
Local traders celebrate the convenience:
“Earlier, layovers wasted time and money. Now, we can close deals in Guangzhou and return in days!” — [Local Business Owner]
Future Prospects
If successful, more India-China routes (e.g., Kolkata-Chengdu) could follow, deepening ties despite political challenges.
— Reported by [Your Name] for NextMinuteNews
