India–China Direct Flights Resume After 5 Years

India and China set to resume direct air travel after five years, restoring non-stop flights, boosting tourism, trade, education and corporate mobility across two major markets of Asia.

Reconnecting the Skies: India-China Direct Flights Resume in Late 2025

Introduction

The skies between India and China are opening once again. After a hiatus of more than five years, both governments have announced the resumption of direct passenger flights, signalling a new era of connectivity, commerce and people-to-people exchange. For travel agents, consolidators, corporate travel planners and airline professionals this represents a significant B2B opportunity across tourism, education, business travel and incentives.

Why This Development Matters in the Travel & Aviation Ecosystem

Diplomatic Reset with Business Consequences

The suspension of direct flights began in early 2020 amid the pandemic and escalating border tensions, including the Galwan Valley clash. In June 2025 both nations agreed to expedite steps to resume direct air services. On October 2 2025, officials confirmed direct flights would be restored by late October.
This is more than just flights: it’s a signal of renewed trust and a gateway to reopened markets.

Enhanced Travel, Trade & Education Flows

For airlines, travel-agents and corporate travel buyers, this opens:

• Shorter travel time and lower cost for business missions, trade expos and supplier meetings between India and China.

• Renewed tourism flows: Chinese inbound tourism to India, and Indian travellers accessing Chinese destinations, cultural and education hubs

• Educational and research exchanges: Indian students in China and vice-versa benefit from direct connectivity.
  
  

Strategic Impact on B2B Travel Packaging

• Agents can design new India–China circuit packages combining business, education, wellness and tourism.

• Corporate planners can integrate India–China routes into incentive travel and global mobility strategies.

• Airlines and consolidators can prepare for re-established O&D (origin & destination) flows and ancillary revenue opportunities.
  
  

Key Timeline, Routes & Industry Preparations

Timeline & Official Agreements

• In January 2025, India and China agreed in principle to resume direct flights.

• In June 2025, both sides issued statements to “expedite” direct air services and update the Air Services Agreement.

• On October 2 2025, a formal announcement indicated designated direct flights would resume by late Oct 2025
  
  

Initial Routes & Operators

• The initial stage may feature carriers from both countries launching designated services between major cities.

• For example, sources show IndiGo (India) and Chinese carriers are preparing slot filings and route approvals.
  
  

Commercial & Operational Considerations

• Travel agents and airlines must monitor regulatory clearances, slot allocation, visa facilitation and market demand ahead of launch.

• Pricing, capacity and seasonal scheduling will evolve; early-movers can design packaging and partnerships now to capitalise.
  
  

Implications & Action Plan for B2B Travel-Industry Stakeholders

For Travel Agents & Consolidators

• Create new product modules: Include “India–China direct route” bundles — business, MICE, education tours, cultural segments.

• Leverage sustainability and growth messaging: Highlight restored direct connectivity as a value-add for clients.

• Partner with carriers: Engage with airlines re-launching services to secure group rates and seat blocks early.

• Monitor demand from inbound Chinese tourism and outbound Indian travellers: Alert customers to new possibilities and adjust marketing accordingly.
  
  

For Corporate Travel Planners & Airline Professionals

• Incorporate new India–China city-pairs in global travel and mobility strategies — business missions, supplier visits, technical collaborations.

• Negotiate corporate rates or loyalty tie-ups for airlines resuming services.

• Position connectivity as a strategic advantage: Reduced travel time, improved cost-efficiency and broader access to China’s market for Indian business travellers.
  
  

Risk & Operational Notes

• Although launch is expected late 2025, regulatory approvals, slot allocation and carrier readiness may shift timelines.

• Visa facilitation and border-protocols may still have transitional bottlenecks — thorough pre-travel checklists are critical.

• Agents must build contingency routes and alternative options pending full schedule stabilisation.
  
  

Conclusion / Takeaway

The resumption of direct flights between India and China marks a strategic opening for travel industry stakeholders. For B2B agents, consolidators and corporate travel professionals alike, this development unlocks new product possibilities, enhances connectivity and strengthens business-travel value propositions. Early engagement, product innovation and airline partnerships will position your operations to benefit from this renewed corridor.

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