India-China Direct Flights Resume Today After 5-Year Hiatus
In a major boost to bilateral ties, direct flights between India and China restart today after a five-year pause. The first flight, Air China CA 947, will depart Beijing at 10 PM (local time) and arrive in New Delhi early tomorrow, reconnecting the two Asian giants.
Why Were India-China Flights Suspended?
Direct flights were halted in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and escalating border tensions after the Galwan Valley clash (June 2020). Diplomatic strains froze travel and trade, but recent talks have eased restrictions, allowing flights to resume.
Flight Schedule & Airline Plans
- Route: Beijing (PEK) → Delhi (DEL)
- Frequency: 3 weekly flights initially
- Indian Airlines: Air India may restart China routes soon, with Shanghai/Guangzhou likely next.
Diplomatic & Economic Impact
The move signals improving relations, though border disputes persist. Key benefits include:
– Business/Trade: Faster travel for entrepreneurs; China is India’s 2nd-largest trading partner ($118B+ trade in 2023).
– Tourism: Boost for Buddhist pilgrimage trips and medical tourism.
– Students/Professionals: No more costly layovers (e.g., via Dubai/Hong Kong).
Passenger & Industry Reactions
- Priya Sharma (Student in Beijing): “Direct flights save time and money.”
- Ramesh Kumar (Travel Agent): “Expect surge in cultural tourism demand.”
Challenges & Future Outlook
- Visa Delays: Stricter scrutiny for Indian travelers.
- Geopolitical Risks: Border tensions could disrupt flights again.
Experts see this as a trust-building step, possibly leading to Xi Jinping’s India visit later this year.
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