China Eastern Airlines to Launch Non-Stop Delhi-Shanghai Flights from January 2, Reviving Kolkata-Kunming Route Soon

Published on December 19, 2025

China Eastern Airlines to Launch Daily Nonstop Flights Between Delhi and Shanghai

In a major development for air travel between India and China, China Eastern Airlines is set to launch daily nonstop flights between Delhi and Shanghai, starting January 2, 2026. This announcement brings a fresh wave of excitement for travelers in both countries, marking a significant step in the resumption and strengthening of bilateral aviation ties. In addition to the new Delhi–Shanghai route, the airline is also reviving the Kolkata–Kunming flight and planning a new direct connection between Mumbai and Shanghai.

Resumption of Vital Air Connectivity

This announcement by China Eastern Airlines is a long-awaited and much-needed boost to air connectivity between two of Asia’s largest economies. The new service will cater to the growing demand for direct flights between India and China, providing a vital link for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations. The airline will operate daily flights under flight number MU563, with the Shanghai Pudong Airport (PVG) being the departure point and Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) serving as the destination.

The outbound flight will depart from Shanghai at 12:50 PM from Terminal 1 and will land in Delhi at 5:45 PM local time. The return flight, MU564, will depart Delhi at 7:55 PM and arrive in Shanghai at 4:10 AM the next day. The approximate duration of the flights will be 7 hours and 25 minutes, offering travelers a convenient and efficient means of air travel between the two cities.

Strengthening China–India Air Links

The resumption of direct air services between Delhi and Shanghai has been long overdue. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, flights between India and China were suspended in 2020, with no immediate plans for reinstatement. This suspension was further complicated by strained bilateral relations following the 2020 border standoff in eastern Ladakh, which delayed the resumption of air links even after the pandemic had passed.

Now, with improved diplomatic relations and renewed cooperation between India and China, the two countries are working to restore and enhance aviation connections. This marks a significant moment for travelers and businesses in both countries, as they can now look forward to a more seamless travel experience between two major global hubs.

China Eastern Airlines Expands Operations

Along with the Delhi–Shanghai route, China Eastern Airlines is also set to relaunch the Kolkata–Kunming route, which was previously suspended. The airline is also working on introducing a new direct flight between Mumbai and Shanghai, further enhancing connectivity between India and China.

These developments are part of China Eastern Airlines’ broader strategy to increase its footprint in the Asia-Pacific region and meet growing passenger demand. The airline has been expanding its network in response to the post-pandemic recovery in global travel. As the airline reintroduces and introduces new routes, it aims to cater to the burgeoning market for cross-border travel between India and China, both of which are important players in the global economy.

Air India’s Return to China

The announcement of China Eastern Airlines’ new route comes on the heels of Air India’s own plans to restart its nonstop services between Delhi and Shanghai. Air India is set to launch its nonstop flights between the two cities on February 1, 2026, marking its return to mainland China after a gap of nearly six years. This move by the Tata-owned airline further signifies the strengthening of India-China air ties, with both airlines competing to offer travelers a range of convenient and competitive flight options.

Air India will operate four flights a week between Delhi and Shanghai using its Boeing 787-8 aircraft, which feature 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 spacious Economy Class seats. These flights will not only cater to business travelers but also attract leisure tourists eager to visit China. The airline’s return to Shanghai is a reflection of recent diplomatic efforts between India and China to restore normalcy in the aviation sector, following the suspension of services in 2020.

Enhancing Bilateral Ties Through Air Travel

The revival of direct flights between India and China is an important milestone in the recovery of international travel post-pandemic. It offers travelers from both countries a convenient and efficient way to connect with one of the world’s most vibrant economic and cultural hubs. For the Indian business community, the resumption of flights means enhanced opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration with Chinese businesses. For tourists, it opens up a wealth of possibilities to explore China’s rich cultural heritage, from the bustling streets of Shanghai to the ancient temples of Kunming.

This also reflects a positive shift in India-China relations, as both countries work to build stronger ties in various sectors, including tourism, trade, and diplomacy. As air connectivity improves, it is expected that both nations will benefit from increased cultural exchange and economic cooperation.

Looking Ahead

With China Eastern Airlines set to resume and expand its services in 2026, travelers between India and China can expect more convenient flight options and greater flexibility in their travel plans. The launch of these flights is just the beginning, as both countries aim to further enhance their aviation links and boost tourism and business opportunities. As travel resumes to pre-pandemic levels, the future of India–China air connectivity looks brighter than ever.