India, China to Resume Direct Flights, Boost Ties

India and China are preparing to restart direct passenger flights as early as next month, signaling a positive step in their efforts to improve bilateral relations that have been tense for several years. The possibility of direct flights being resumed was reported recently, with Indian airlines already being asked to be ready to launch flights to China on short notice. An official announcement might coincide with the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, scheduled for late August in China, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India is expected to attend and possibly meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The suspension of direct air connectivity between India and China dates back to early 2020. Initially, the flights were halted due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Later, the worsening of political relations following violent border clashes in Galwan Valley in June 2020, which tragically resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers and an unknown number of Chinese troops, deepened the divide. After the suspension, travelers had to take indirect flights, often connecting through hubs like Hong Kong or Singapore.

The resumption of direct flights is part of broader diplomatic and economic efforts aimed at normalizing ties post the four-year military standoff along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). In recent months, significant progress has been made. For example, troop disengagements have been confirmed at key friction points, including Galwan Valley. Moreover, diplomatic dialogues have restarted, and restrictions on Chinese tourist visas have been eased by India, signaling a thaw in people-to-people connections.

From an economic and trade perspective, India and China have also been working on resolving trade-related concerns and restoring cross-border trade where possible. There continues to be active engagement to address specific trade disputes and to stabilize cooperation between the two giant economies, with dialogues involving senior officials taking place throughout 2025.

The clear benefits of resuming direct flights lie not just in the convenience for travelers but also in the broader symbolism of efforts being made to foster closer cooperation. Direct air links will facilitate smoother travel for business, tourism, and diplomatic exchanges, enhancing connectivity between populous urban centers in both countries. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo are expected to be among the first to restart services.

However, it is important to note that despite these positive signs, challenges remain. Several issues related to border disputes, trade restrictions, and geopolitical alignments continue to create complexity in the relationship. Experts caution that while resuming flights is a meaningful gesture, a complete normalization of ties between India and China will require sustained diplomatic efforts over a longer period.

In summary, the likely restart of direct flights between India and China represents a cautiously optimistic milestone in their bilateral relationship. It reflects a mutual willingness to move forward and engage on multiple fronts, balancing pragmatism with the need to manage longstanding disputes. This development will be watched keenly both within the region and globally, as the world's two most populous nations take small but significant steps toward warmer ties.

With inputs from agencies

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