Shanghai: After a gap of more than five years, China Eastern Airlines has announced the resumption of its direct flights between Shanghai and Delhi, set to begin on November 9, 2025. The revival of this route marks a major milestone in China-India civil aviation relations, which were severely impacted following the border tensions in 2020. The suspension of direct flights in the aftermath of the military clash had not only limited people-to-people exchanges but also affected business travel and trade between the two nations.
The airline confirmed that the Shanghai-Delhi flights will operate three times a week, on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. While detailed information regarding aircraft type, exact flight duration, and ticket pricing has yet to be announced, tickets are already available through China Eastern Airlines’ online booking portal. Industry observers note that the gradual resumption of services reflects growing confidence in bilateral ties and the easing of travel restrictions after years of geopolitical uncertainty.
The timing of this announcement aligns with a broader diplomatic rapprochement between China and India. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in China, his first visit in over seven years. During discussions with Chinese leadership, both sides explored ways to deepen trade relations and address economic imbalances. Aviation experts suggest that reopening direct air connectivity is a tangible step toward reinforcing these diplomatic engagements and rebuilding trust between the two nations.
Beyond diplomatic symbolism, the resumption of flights is expected to have significant economic and cultural impacts. Increased connectivity is likely to benefit tourism, facilitate business travel, and encourage academic and cultural exchanges. In parallel, India’s largest carrier, IndiGo, has announced plans to launch daily non-stop flights between Delhi and Guangzhou starting November 10, signaling a wider trend of reopening air travel links with China. Analysts expect that renewed flight operations could gradually restore pre-2020 traffic levels while boosting bilateral commerce.
The return of the Shanghai-Delhi route represents a strategic shift in China-India relations, emphasizing engagement and cooperation over isolation. As flights take off next month, both countries appear poised to leverage improved connectivity to strengthen economic, cultural, and people-to-people ties after a prolonged period of tension.