Air India Expands China Presence Through New Sales Partnership

Published on December 3, 2025

Air India has moved to strengthen its position in mainland China through a new sales partnership designed to improve access for travellers across key cities. The carrier has appointed The Aviation Management Limited, a TAM Group company, as its General Sales Agent for passenger sales. The agreement took effect on December 1, 2025. This step supports the airline’s wider plan to rebuild long-haul operations and prepare for the return of its link to Shanghai.

New Distribution Support Across Mainland China

The new appointment allows Air India to expand its reach in one of Asia’s busiest travel markets. Passenger sales support will now be handled by TAM Group. The company will manage bookings, ticketing, and related passenger services within mainland China. These duties are expected to bring smoother access for local travellers and trade partners.

The move is aligned with the airline’s broader strategy to strengthen distribution. It also prepares the carrier for rising demand after the reopening of international travel. Travellers in major Chinese cities are expected to benefit from a more structured booking environment. The improvements may also support stronger visibility for the carrier’s network from Delhi and Mumbai.

Resumption of Delhi–Shanghai Flights Planned for 2026

Air India plans to restart non-stop flights between Delhi and Shanghai on February 1, 2026. The service is viewed as an important route for movement between the two regions. Demand had shifted after earlier travel disruptions, and the return of this link is expected to restore a stable corridor.

The carrier is currently upgrading its long-haul fleet. The process includes new wide-body aircraft and refreshed cabin features. Better onboard amenities are also being introduced. These changes aim to give travellers more consistent service on routes across Asia, Europe, and North America. As these upgrades proceed, the airline expects the overall journey experience to improve.

The planned revival of the China route aligns with these investments. Travellers moving for business, education, or leisure have shown steady activity. This pattern has supported the decision to rebuild capacity in East Asia. The carrier expects that enhanced distribution will help capture demand with fewer booking barriers.

Travel Demand and Engagement Among International Visitors

Travel patterns between India and East Asia have continued to evolve. Activity once driven mainly by business travel is now more diverse. Travellers moving for academic purposes, leisure activities, or growing SME requirements have shaped new flows. These groups have remained consistent since borders reopened.

Tourists and international visitors often value stable access, simple booking steps, and predictable schedules. Travel decisions tend to be influenced by clarity in distribution and route availability. When airlines expand regional support, travellers respond with more confidence. This environment can encourage smoother movement and better planning for long-distance journeys.

Such dynamics highlight how travellers adapt to changing networks and revived international routes. As options grow, passengers benefit from wider availability and easier access to long-haul connections.

Strengthening Global Sales Operations

Air India’s decision to work with TAM Group reflects a shift toward more structured international sales operations. The partnership supports the carrier’s wider transformation effort. It also aims to ensure that the Chinese market receives consistent support during the next phase of the airline’s expansion.

The enhanced role given to TAM Group is expected to help establish a stable base for passenger sales in mainland China. The move also prepares the airline for the return of more regular traffic between India and China. With distribution improved and fleet upgrades underway, the carrier aims to offer a clearer and more accessible travel experience.

As travel activity continues to broaden, predictable sales support may help build stronger engagement with passengers. The partnership is positioned to assist those planning trips through Delhi and Mumbai hubs. Travellers looking for long-haul options may see more reliable availability as the network grows.

Air India’s focus on distribution, fleet renewal, and a revived China connection marks a shift toward long-term operational stability. The expanded presence in mainland China is one element of this ongoing process. Through coordinated sales support and route restoration, the airline aims to strengthen its place in a competitive regional market.

Image Source: AI