India, China Connect as Direct Flights Resume After 5 Years

After a long gap of more than four years, India and China have resumed direct flights, reconnecting the two nations through a daily non-stop service between Kolkata and Guangzhou. The first IndiGo A320 Neo aircraft took off from Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport at 10 pm on Sunday, carrying 176 passengers on board.

The India-China direct flight marks a new chapter in regional connectivity after services were suspended in early 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent border tensions. The revival of this route comes amid improving diplomatic ties, reflecting a shared intent to rebuild cooperation and promote people-to-people exchange.

At the airport, the historic occasion was celebrated with a ceremonial lamp-lighting, symbolizing the renewed friendship between India and China. Officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and IndiGo Airlines were present, highlighting the emotional and strategic importance of this milestone.

Airport Director P.R. Beuria said the resumption of direct flights between India and China will not only strengthen business and tourism but also make travel smoother for passengers from both sides. He emphasized that the route would reinforce Kolkata’s role as an international aviation hub in eastern India.

The India-China direct flight from Kolkata to Guangzhou now operates daily, marking a powerful symbol of recovery, partnership, and the reopening of skies that connect two of Asia’s most dynamic nations.

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