Air India will resume flights to China this week, ending a nearly six-year suspension of services triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent restrictions. The frist flight, AI306, is scheduled to depart from Delhi for Shanghai on Thursday, February 29th, according to an Air India statement.
The resumption of direct flights marks a critically important step in strengthening ties between India and China, facilitating travel for business, tourism, and the Indian diaspora. The halt in flights impacted trade and people-to-people exchanges; restoring connectivity addresses growing demand and offers a more convenient travel option than current indirect routes. Air India plans to operate weekly flights to Shanghai and Guangzhou, wiht potential expansion based on demand and regulatory approvals.
Air India suspended flights to China in January 2020 following the outbreak of COVID-19. Restrictions imposed by both countries throughout the pandemic prevented a swift return to service. While some airlines continued limited operations, direct flights remained largely absent.
The airline will initially operate weekly flights - AI306 Delhi to Shanghai every Thursday and AI307 Shanghai to Delhi every friday. AI308 Delhi to Guangzhou will operate every Saturday, with AI309 Guangzhou to Delhi on Sundays. “With the easing of travel restrictions, we are delighted to resume direct connectivity between India and China,” said Nipun Aggarwal, Chief Commercial Officer of Air India. “These flights will not only cater to the significant demand for travel between the two countries but also contribute to fostering stronger economic and cultural ties.”
