China Eastern Airlines Resumes Flights as China-India Air Links Reopen
China Eastern Airlines announced plans to resume flights between Shanghai and Delhi starting November 9. This comes amid a renewed diplomatic relationship between China and India after a pause of five years in direct air links.
Flight Schedule and Operations
The airline will operate the Shanghai-Delhi route three times a week. The flights will be scheduled for:
- Wednesdays
- Saturdays
- Sundays
Details regarding ticket sales and further operational information can be accessed through the airline’s official website.
Diplomatic Background
This announcement follows a significant milestone: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to China, marking his first trip in over seven years. During this visit, both nations aimed to enhance trade relations. Modi addressed concerns over India’s growing trade deficit with China.
Impact on Air Travel
The resumed flights indicate a shift in diplomatic ties, as direct air links between India and China had been suspended since 2020. This was a consequence of military tensions following clashes along their shared Himalayan border.
India’s foreign ministry confirmed the resumption of commercial flights, highlighting a commitment to renewed connectivity in the region. Another Indian carrier, IndiGo, previously announced the initiation of daily non-stop flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou, reflecting increasing efforts to enhance air travel between the two nations.
Future Prospects
Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport has expressed support for the opening of additional direct routes, including potential services between Guangzhou and Delhi. This is a positive indication of air travel expansion between China and India following several challenging years.
