In a significant development for India–China relations, IndiGo, India’s largest airline, will resume direct flights between Kolkata and Guangzhou starting October 26, 2025. This marks the first non-stop air connectivity between the two nations in over five years, following a suspension caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and extended due to diplomatic tensions and a border standoff.
The flight suspension, initiated in early 2020, was part of a broader halt in international travel during the pandemic. It was further prolonged by strained relations between India and China, particularly after the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. The restoration of direct flights is seen as an important step toward strengthening bilateral ties, boosting trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to China, his first in seven years, played a key role in facilitating the resumption of this route. During bilateral talks, both nations emphasized enhancing connectivity to foster economic and diplomatic cooperation.
IndiGo will operate daily non-stop flights between Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport using Airbus A320neo aircraft. Bookings opened on October 3, 2025, through IndiGo’s official website and mobile application. The Kolkata–Guangzhou route is expected to reduce travel time significantly for business professionals, tourists, and students traveling between India and China. Guangzhou, as a major commercial hub in southern China, is a gateway for trade and investment opportunities, making the route strategically important.
Experts view the resumption of direct flights as a strategic move toward improving relations between the two nations. This development is likely to enhance economic cooperation, particularly in manufacturing, technology, and education. Tourism is also expected to benefit, as direct flights make travel easier for leisure visitors and promote cultural exchange. Increased connectivity may also support academic collaborations and student mobility between the two countries. Dr. Ramesh Singh, an expert in international relations, said, “The return of Kolkata–Guangzhou flights reflects not just an improvement in diplomatic ties, but also a mutual commitment to fostering stronger economic and cultural relations.”
IndiGo has indicated that it plans to expand India–China connectivity, subject to regulatory approvals. Routes between Delhi and Guangzhou are under consideration, while Air India is preparing to resume Delhi–Shanghai direct flights before the end of the year. These expansions are expected to transform air travel between India and China, with significant implications for trade, business travel, and cultural cooperation.
The resumption of Kolkata–Guangzhou direct flights represents more than a logistical milestone; it is a symbolic gesture of renewed engagement between India and China after years of disruption. As air connectivity is restored, it is expected to foster closer ties, enhance economic collaboration, and promote mutual understanding between the two largest economies in Asia.
