Mumbai Joins Kolkata, New Delhi, Shanghai, and Guangzhou in Expanding India-China Flight Network in 2026 — How Travel Between the Two Nations is About to Soar

Published on December 10, 2025

In 2025, India and China are furthering their tourism and business connections with the resumption of direct flights between major cities in both countries. This development is a significant milestone in enhancing connectivity and offering easier access to Indian citizens wishing to explore China. These new routes will provide greater opportunities for tourism, business collaborations, and cultural exchanges.

The resumption of direct flights is expected to bring a surge in travel between the two nations, making it easier for Indian tourists to explore China’s rich history, vibrant cities, and booming economy. The opening of these routes comes at an opportune time, as both countries work to improve their economic and cultural exchanges.

Direct Flights to Key Chinese Cities: A Gateway for Indian Travelers

In October 2025, IndiGo reinstated its daily, non-stop service between Kolkata and Guangzhou, offering easier access for travelers from eastern India to southern China. The route makes it convenient for business professionals and tourists alike to visit one of China’s most important economic hubs. This move to restore air connectivity between the two nations reflects a growing desire to improve bilateral relations and foster stronger ties.

Moreover, China Eastern Airlines resumed flights between New Delhi and Shanghai starting November 2025, after more than five years of suspension. This route will operate three times per week, providing Indian travelers with a convenient way to access China’s financial and cultural capital. The Shanghai route is particularly vital for business travelers looking to connect with China’s thriving economic landscape.

On 1st February 2026, Air India is set to launch its direct flights between Delhi and Shanghai, operating four times a week using its twin-aisle Boeing 787-8 aircraft, featuring 18 flat beds in Business Class and 238 spacious seats in Economy Class. This new route further enhances the connection between India and China, making travel easier for both leisure and business purposes. Additionally, Air India plans to introduce a Mumbai–Shanghai service in 2026, further strengthening the air travel network between the two countries. Although this plan is subject to the requisite regulatory approvals.

China’s Embassy Signals: Our Doors Are Open to India

On 14 August 2025, a senior official at the Chinese Embassy in India delivered a powerful address to young leaders at a dialogue event. In that speech, China reaffirmed its long‑term commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation with India — stressing principles such as openness, equality, and win‑win cooperation.

The Embassy explicitly expressed that China aims to facilitate personnel exchanges. Through that lens, the restoration of direct air connectivity should be seen not only as a logistic step but as a strategic push to revive people-to-people contact, tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges between India and China.

This public diplomatic tone — from a high‑level functionary — sends a clear message: China welcomes Indian travellers. The renewed attention to accessibility and hospitality strengthens the case for a new travel wave.

Enhancing Tourism: Easier Access to China’s Cultural and Economic Hub

With the opening of these direct flight routes, Indian tourists now have easier access to explore China’s diverse offerings, from its iconic historical landmarks to its modern cities. Whether visiting the ancient Great Wall, the Terracotta Warriors in Xi’an, or the bustling streets of Shanghai, Indian travelers now have a more seamless travel experience.

These direct connections not only make it easier for tourists to visit China’s most famous attractions but also allow for more convenient access to a wider range of destinations across the country. The expansion of direct flights will contribute to a growth in tourism, benefiting local businesses in both India and China.

A New Era for Business and Cultural Exchange

The resumption of these direct flights also plays a crucial role in enhancing business exchanges. China is one of the world’s largest economies, and these new routes provide easier access for Indian entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders to engage with China’s growing market. With smoother travel options, Indian businesses will find it easier to establish connections and explore new opportunities in various industries.

Furthermore, the cultural exchange between India and China is set to flourish. The easier access to China will allow for greater interaction between Indian and Chinese citizens, fostering mutual understanding and appreciation. Whether for educational purposes, cultural visits, or collaborative projects, these direct routes make it possible for both countries to share their unique cultures with each other.

Why This Matters for Indian Travelers

For Indian citizens, the resumption of direct flights to China means more than just easier access to a new country. It’s an opportunity to explore one of the world’s oldest and most influential civilizations, to experience its culture firsthand, and to engage in meaningful exchanges. Whether it’s traveling for leisure, business, or education, the availability of these new routes makes it easier for Indian travelers to make the most of their time in China.

The return of direct flights is a sign of the growing importance of the India-China tourism corridor. As travel barriers are removed, the relationship between the two countries will continue to grow, creating a stronger foundation for future collaboration.

As 2025 unfolds, more and more Indian travelers will have the opportunity to explore China, while Chinese businesses and tourists will find it easier to engage with India. With these direct routes, both countries are entering a new chapter of bilateral growth, ushering in a bright future for India-China tourism.