China Eastern Airlines Ignites Tourism Boom with New Delhi-Shanghai Daily Flights: A Powerful Emotional Reconnect

Published on December 17, 2025

The return of direct air travel between India and China is a moment of deep human significance. For five long years, a vital link was severed. Families waited. Business dreams were postponed. Travel became a complicated, tiring journey. Now, that is finally changing. People-to-people contact is being restored. The Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the resumption of direct air services. This move follows technical-level discussions held throughout 2025. It shows a mutual commitment to gradually normalise bilateral exchanges. This is not just about airlines; it is about reuniting our two great civilizations.

Restoring a Key Tourism Corridor

China Eastern Airlines has relaunched its non-stop service. The route connects New Delhi (DEL) with Shanghai Pudong (PVG). This link is extremely important. It directly connects India’s capital with China’s major economic and cultural hub.

The Path to Daily Service

The flight service initially resumed on November 9, 2025. This was after a five-year interruption. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed this important step. The initial schedule was three flights per week. These flights operated on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The service is being operated by an Airbus A330-200 wide-body aircraft.

Shanghai to Delhi Flight MU563 departs Shanghai at 12:50 PM. It arrives in Delhi at 5:45 PM. Delhi to Shanghai Flight MU564 departs Delhi at 7:55 PM. It reaches Shanghai at 4:10 AM the next day. This schedule makes for convenient travel. China Eastern Airlines has further announced major expansion plans. The airline intends to introduce daily non-stop flights by January 2026. This accelerated expansion highlights strong market confidence.

Government Focus on Tourism Revival

The resumption of flights is strongly supported by both governments. Official statements stress the goal of expanding people-to-people contact. The Chinese Foreign Ministry views this as a positive step. Easing cross-border travel serves the common interests of both nations.

The China National Tourism Office (CNTO) has expressed strong optimism. They see the future of China-India tourism cooperation as bright. Renewed air connectivity is a key opportunity. CNTO plans to strengthen destination and route promotion. This includes joint trade fairs and marketing events. They want to co-create itineraries appealing to Indian travellers. This includes culinary trails and cultural routes.

The Indian Ministry of Tourism is also boosting travel infrastructure. They offer financial support schemes to States and Union Territories. These efforts aim to make India a safer and more attractive global destination. Data shows Foreign Tourist Arrivals are recovering. The direct flight service will provide a critical gateway for Chinese tourists. They can now visit India’s vast heritage sites without long layovers. The direct connection lowers time and cost friction significantly.

An Ocean of Opportunity for Travellers

The resumption opens a floodgate of tourism potential. China Eastern Airlines was the first mainland Chinese carrier to resume services. This signals a new chapter. Prior to the suspension, Chinese tourist arrivals in India were significant. In 2017, India recorded over 247,000 visitors from China. This new daily service aims to surpass those numbers quickly.

Direct flights ease the movement of tourists, students, and businesses. Tourism is a powerful driver of mutual understanding. It encourages cultural exchange and creates employment. The spiritual journey of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra has also seen positive steps. Both governments are working to restore and expand such pilgrimage routes. This shows a commitment beyond just commercial travel.

A Shared Future of Discovery

The two countries share a long, deep history. The new air bridge invites travellers to explore this shared past. Indian tourists can now easily discover China’s diverse landscapes. Chinese travellers can explore India’s vibrant culture. The simple act of flying direct will bring millions closer. It offers new avenues for shared prosperity.

This development is much more than a transport upgrade. It is a sign of hope. It signals a strategic intent to normalise relations. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry said Beijing is ready to continue promoting people-to-people exchanges. This renewed connectivity offers a chance for human hearts to meet again. This journey promises new discoveries for everyone who boards the flight.