Flight Schedule and Details
China Southern Airlines has announced the resumption of its direct, non-stop service between New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) and Guangzhou's Baiyun International Airport (CAN). The daily flights are scheduled to begin on September
21, 2026. The outbound flight, CZ360, will depart from Delhi at 8:00 PM IST and arrive in Guangzhou at 4:15 AM local time the next day. The return flight, CZ359, departs Guangzhou at 3:35 PM local time, landing in Delhi at 7:00 PM IST. This daily service aims to meet the growing demand from both leisure and corporate travellers, significantly improving connectivity between the two major economic hubs.
Visa and Documentation Essentials
Indian passport holders must obtain a valid visa before travelling to China; there is currently no visa-on-arrival facility for regular tourism or business. The most common visa types are the Tourist Visa (L) and the Business Visa (M). The application process has been largely digitised since late 2025, allowing you to fill forms and upload documents online. However, you will still need to visit a designated Chinese Visa Application Service Centre (CVASC) in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Kolkata for a biometric (fingerprint) appointment and to submit your passport. Key documents include a passport with at least six months' validity, confirmed return flight tickets, hotel bookings for your entire stay, a detailed day-by-day itinerary, and recent bank statements as proof of financial stability.
Health and Safety Protocols
While many stringent pandemic-era rules have been relaxed, travellers are still required to complete a Health Declaration Form before entering China. This must be done online within 24 hours of your arrival. You can access the form via a WeChat mini-program called "Customs Pocket Declaration" or by scanning a QR code at the departure airport. Upon submission, you will receive a QR code that you must save and present to customs officials upon landing. Be prepared to answer questions about your health status and recent travel history. It is crucial to be honest in your declaration, as providing false information can lead to legal consequences.
Airline Policies and Baggage
Before you pack, check the specific baggage allowance for your ticket on the China Southern Airlines website. Typically for international economy class, passengers are allowed two checked bags, each weighing up to 23 kg. However, this can vary based on your fare class, so verification is essential. For cabin baggage, the standard is one piece plus a personal item, but dimensions and weight limits apply. The aircraft expected to operate on this route is the Boeing 737-8. If you have special requirements, such as travelling with pets or needing wheelchair assistance, it is best to contact the airline well in advance to make the necessary arrangements.
Preparing for Arrival in Guangzhou
Once you land at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN), one of China's busiest hubs, you will proceed through health quarantine, immigration, and then baggage claim. To ensure a smooth process, have your passport, visa, and the health declaration QR code ready. Foreign nationals may also be required to provide fingerprints at an automated kiosk upon arrival. After clearing customs, you will find several options for transport into the city, including the Metro, airport buses, and taxis. It's also a good idea to arrange for local currency (Chinese Yuan, CNY) or have a mobile payment app like Alipay or WeChat Pay set up, as these are widely used across China. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or activating an international roaming plan with an eSIM for connectivity, as many international apps like Google and WhatsApp are blocked.
