IndiGo Resumes Direct Delhi–Guangzhou Flights, Signalling Revival of India–China Air Connectivity

Visuals shared by ANI from onboard the flight offered a glimpse into the passenger experience, showing smooth meal service and a comfortable journey. The cabin appeared nearly full, with most seats occupied. Passengers were seen resting, reading magazines, and enjoying beverages, while families and travellers across different age groups highlighted strong demand for the route.

IndiGo had earlier announced in October 2025 the resumption of daily direct flights between Delhi and Guangzhou. At the time, Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo, stated that the airline aimed to enhance connectivity to China alongside the recently resumed Kolkata route. He emphasised that renewed operations between two of the world’s most populous nations hold significant potential for cultural exchange and economic collaboration. He added that the Guangzhou connection would integrate China with IndiGo’s extensive domestic and expanding international network, boosting opportunities in trade, investment, tourism, and education.

The resumption comes amid improving bilateral relations between India and China. In parallel, Air China has restarted its Beijing–Delhi services, strengthening overall air connectivity between the two nations.

China Eastern Airlines has also resumed its direct Kunming–Kolkata service last month and had earlier reinstated non-stop flights between New Delhi and Shanghai in November last year, signalling a gradual return to pre-pandemic connectivity levels, according to ANI.

Indian carriers have responded to rising travel demand by increasing capacity. IndiGo resumed daily direct flights between Kolkata and Shanghai from March 29 and had previously reinstated the Kolkata–Guangzhou route. These developments collectively reflect coordinated efforts by airlines from both countries to reinforce aviation links and support broader economic engagement.

The revival of key air routes follows an easing of diplomatic ties after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meeting in Tianjin last year, which helped pave the way for renewed commercial and travel exchanges. The restoration of direct flights underscores a significant step toward rebuilding connectivity, strengthening bilateral relations, and accelerating cross-border mobility between India and China.