China and India have agreed to resume direct commercial flights for the first time in five years, marking a step forward in diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations. The decision follows years of political tension and travel restrictions that began with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. Officials from both countries have confirmed the agreement, with further details to be finalized soon.
A Long-Awaited Agreement
Flights between India and mainland China were suspended when the pandemic hit, and the suspension continued amid rising border tensions. However, recent diplomatic efforts have paved the way for air services to restart.
India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing, leading to an official statement from India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirming that both countries had reached a consensus “in principle to resume direct air services.” China’s Foreign Ministry also confirmed that, in addition to flights, it would reopen Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar in western Tibet to Indian pilgrims this year.
Border Tensions and Diplomatic Challenges
The pause in direct flights was not just about COVID-19. In June 2020, deadly clashes occurred along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), a disputed border spanning 3,379 kilometers (2,100 miles). At least 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers were killed in the confrontation.
Despite diplomatic talks and disengagement efforts, tensions have remained. However, a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BRICS summit in October 2023 signaled a shift in relations, setting the stage for reopening flights.
Travelers Express Enthusiasm
The news of resumed flights has sparked excitement among travelers and students. On Chinese social media platform Weibo, one user shared their frustration over having their flight and visa canceled in February 2020 due to pandemic restrictions. “The wait lasted for five years… Must go to India,” they wrote.
Others are hopeful about making it to India for major cultural events like Holi, the festival of colors. “Is there a chance to make it to Holi in March?” one netizen wondered.
For Indian students in China, the return of direct flights is a relief. Anayat Ali, a PhD student in Shanghai, welcomed the news: “With direct flights, I can visit family more frequently, reduce expenses, and avoid the stress of layovers.” Previously, passengers traveling between Beijing and New Delhi faced long transit times through Hong Kong, Bangkok, or Kuala Lumpur, extending their journey by six to ten hours.
Final Steps Before Flights Resume
While the agreement marks a positive step, some remain cautious about the timeline. “It’s an agreement in principle,” one Weibo user pointed out, indicating that negotiations may take time before flights officially restart.
With both governments working toward finalizing details, travelers and businesses are hopeful that direct flights will soon be available, strengthening economic and cultural ties between India and China.