What's Happening?
IndiGo, India's largest low-cost carrier, is set to resume direct flights to mainland China, marking the first such service since the pandemic and a border clash in 2020 halted air travel between the two nations. Starting October 26, IndiGo will operate daily flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou using Airbus A320neo aircraft, with plans to add a New Delhi-Guangzhou route pending regulatory approval. This resumption is part of a broader effort to restore air connectivity and strengthen bilateral ties between India and China, two of the world's most populous countries.
Why It's Important?
The resumption of direct flights between India and China is a significant development for both countries, as it facilitates the movement of people and goods, potentially boosting economic and cultural exchanges. Before the pandemic, the India-China air route was one of Asia's largest unserved markets, with over 1.25 million passengers in 2019. The return of these flights could help revive passenger traffic, which had fallen significantly. For IndiGo, this move represents a strategic expansion of its international network, positioning the airline as a key player in the region's aviation market.
What's Next?
IndiGo's resumption of flights is expected to pave the way for more direct routes between India and China, as the airline aims to expand its international presence. The Indian Foreign Ministry has expressed that this development will further facilitate people-to-people contact and contribute to the normalization of bilateral exchanges. As air travel between the two countries resumes, other airlines may also seek to re-establish their services, potentially leading to increased competition and more options for travelers.
